Black Heart_Michelle Petty & Vicki Gentes

BLACK HEART
Written by
Michelle Petty & Vicki Gentes
Michelleatobx@aol.com/Vpg133@yahoo.com
Phone: (252) 256-1922/ (252) 489-3391

FADE IN:
EXT. LATE 1800’S BROTHEL - DAY
ELAINE, a stouthearted, robust, middle-aged woman sits on the
stoop fanning herself. DAN, a blind, middle-aged man sits
beside her. KYLE, a young man in a suit, approaches with
flowers.
ELAINE
Oh Lord. Here comes another one.
DAN
One what?
ELAINE
A suitor for Amy. Don’t they know?
DAN
Know what?
ELAINE
That they are going to get shot
down. Lucky for you, you don’t have
to see it. It’s pathetic. Like
watching a little baby lamb headin’
to slaughter.
KYLE
Howdy Miss Elaine, Dan, is Amy
here?
ELAINE
Hi Kyle, yeah she is but maybe now
is not such a good time?
KYLE
Yes Ma'am, but you said that last
week too.
ELAINE
Oh did I?
KYLE
Yeah, you did... and I keep having
to wash up-n-all and I picked the
last of my mama’s nice flowers.
DAN
They smell good.

KYLE
Yes Sir, thank you. So may I please
go in and see her?
ELAINE
Okay, sure honey. Good luck.
INT. WELL KEPT BROTHEL - MOMENTS LATER
Kyle enters. AMY, a dispirited, twenty something, dark
featured woman is tending bar.
KYLE
Howdy Amy. I mean good day...
ma’am... I mean Amy.
AMY
Hi Kyle. Why are you dressed like
that? Why do you have flowers? Did
someone die?
KYLE
I don’t think anyone died. I just
thought you might like some
flowers.
AMY
No. I don’t. I don’t like flowers.
The smell reminds me of a funeral.
KYLE
Oh, right, of course. I know that
you have fallen on some hard times
since your father’s passing and
all. So I thought I’d ask you...
Kyle gets down on one knee.
AMY
Oh no!
KYLE
If you... you might like to
accompany me for some dinner or a
stroll along the river?
AMY
Is that all?
KYLE
Well, I guess, unless there is
something else you might like to
do.
2.

AMY
Then why are you on the floor? Get
up!
Kyle stands.
AMY (CONT’D)
No.
KYLE
No what? Not at the river?
AMY
No. No walk. No flowers. No dinner.
No to it all! Please leave.
EXT. FRONT STOOP - MOMENTS LATER
Kyle dejected, hands the flowers to Elaine. She smells them.
Kyle leaves.
Elaine tosses the flowers into a nearby barrel filled with
old bouquets.
ELAINE
Lord, it’s gonna take a force of
nature to crack that shell.
EXT. OUTSKIRTS OF TOWN - DAY
The sun blazes as a small posse of cowboys approach town. Two
men, LANNY and RILEY lead the group. Lanny, once refined is
now rough around the edges. Riley, suffers from Tourette’s
syndrome, his body and face move with ticks and twitches.
LANNY
My God! It’s as hot as a whorehouse
on nickel night. I can’t wait to
get off of this fucking horse.
RILEY
Do nnnnott use the gggg..good lords
name in vain.
LANNY
Don’t start up with that religious
shit again Riley. What you tellin’
me you ain't up for some whiskey
and some women?
3.

RILEY
Nnno, I mean yyyes, I sssuppose so.
LANNY
Good. Then my God, shut the fuck up
for once. And that might just
happen.
The posse continues towards town.
EXT. HOUSE IN THE MIDDLE OF TOWN - DAY
BURT, a fat bully and coward, stands on his porch, and lights
a pipe. He watches Lanny and Riley as they tie their horses
up outside the brothel.
LANNY
How much dinero you got?
Riley guards his pocket defensively.
RILEY
Eeeenough, why?
LANNY
Cause you owe me for saving your
damn life again.
Lanny forcefully takes Riley’s money.
LANNY (CONT’D)
Thank you kindly.
Suddenly, two men in a heated struggle, fall through the
doors of the brothel, rolling past Lanny and Riley who are
not fazed.
Burt, still watching, WHISTLES waving Lanny and Riley over.
EXT. SMALL HORSE RANCH - EVENING
VICTOR LAWSON, a rugged man in his early forties, is
skillfully breaking in a mare. BEN, a young man of twenty,
assists.
VICTOR
Whoa, whoa, down girl.
BEN
She is a proud one eh?
4.

VICTOR
Yeah, she’s hard to break.
The horse calms.
VICTOR (CONT’D)
There, she’s learning to trust us.
SCOUT, a four year old boy watches on. While WILL, a teenage
boy, sits back from the action sketching a masterpiece.
SCOUT
You did it Pop!
VICTOR
Yeah, your old man’s still got it.
A woman appears at the front door of the humble ranch house.
ELIZABETH is overdressed. She catches Will’s eye and motions
him in. Will WHISTLES rounding up the rest of the group.
INT. VICTOR LAWSON’S FARM HOUSE - MOMENTS LATER
The family gathers for dinner. The house is modest in size
but lavishly decorated. Elizabeth smiles and looks around the
table until she gets to Ben.
ELIZABETH
Benjamin, I do not understand why
you defy me. All I requested was
you wash up for dinner.
Ben reaches over the table for some bread. Victor grabs Ben’s
hand sternly. He drops the loaf.
VICTOR
Son, go wash up.
Ben leaves the room. The rest of the family eats in SILENCE.
Ben returns, clean. He glares at his mother as he sits.
ELIZABETH
Will drew the most magnificent
landscape today. You have outdone
yourself again Will. I believe your
art will grace the walls of a fine
museum one day.
The boys scarf down their food, uninterested.
Ben, stops eating.
5.

ELIZABETH (CONT’D)
Yes, Benjamin?
BEN
I don’t know what world you’re
livin’ in Mother but I have not
seen any art museums around here
lately.
ELIZABETH
Why do you speak to me with such
disrespect?
Ben jumps up from his chair.
WILL
Ben, stop.
VICTOR
Son, sit down.
Ben points to the china cabinet.
BEN
No really Mother, look at all this
hoity toity stuff. Have you looked
out the window lately? We’re not
living in Paris or New York City or
some fancy place like that.
Elizabeth tears up. Scout climbs into her lap.
ELIZABETH
If you don’t like our fine home,
you may leave.
Ben goes to exit, catching his reflection in the glass of one
of Will’s framed drawings. He punches the picture SHATTERING
the glass. He leaves SLAMMING the door.
INT. BEDROOM - MOMENTS LATER
Elizabeth sits on the bed SOBBING. Victor enters and leans
against the dresser.
ELIZABETH
I’m tired Victor. It is quite the
undertaking to maintain such a fine
home for you and the boys. I
disdain this town and all the
deadbeats in it. And Benjamin, he
is starting to turn into one of
them.
(MORE)
6.

You promised if we did not have the
ranch up and going by now we would
move back to Richmond.
VICTOR
I realize it has taken a lot longer
than expected, but you have to be
patient with things like this.
ELIZABETH
Patient? I have been more than
patient! Honestly, Victor I do not
understand why you insist on
staying here.
Victor shrugs his shoulders and looks out the window.
INT. BROTHEL - NIGHT
Amy is tending bar. Lanny’s posse are drinking, smoking,
playing poker, and flirting with the whores. Elaine watches
everyone like a mother hen. Dan is PLAYING the piano. SARAH,
a blonde and moody teenage girl, is wiping off tables.
Riley watches Sarah like prey and begins to twitch.
Ben has joined Lanny and Riley’s posse. They are all
intoxicated and having a good time.
RILEY
(Outburst)
Tits! Shit!
Ben leans in to Lanny.
BEN
Why does he keep doing that?
LANNY
Awe, he can’t help it none. He is
always like that. It just gets
worse when he’s on a bender.
BEN
Is he on a bender now?
LANNY
Yeah, he’s as full as a tic... Hey,
we’re planning on headin’ out in a
couple of days if you’re serious
about lighting a shuck. Me and my
partners here just have a bit of
business to wind up first.
ELIZABETH (CONT'D)
7.

BEN
Yeah, I’m serious. The sooner the
better.
Riley stumbles over to Sarah.
RILEY
Varmint! Stink!
Sarah is startled. Riley grabs her.
SARAH
Let me go! What are you doing?!
RILEY
Come on girl, I want a poke at you.
The posse is amused.
LANNY
I swear that boy’s dumb as a rock.
Amy takes notice of the commotion and runs over to help. Amy
punches Riley. Sarah, now free, slides in behind her.
AMY
This girl is not for sale!
Amy point to Elaine.
AMY (CONT’D)
Miss Elaine can find you one who
is.
Riley starts to shake.
RILEY
No..nnn..nno, I wwant thhis one.
AMY
Last time I’m gonna tell you. She
is not for sale.
RILEY
Hell! Cock! Shit..cock shit!
Riley grabs Amy by the throat and pins her to the wall.
JOHNNY, the middle aged bartender, motions for a concerned
patron to stand down.
AMY
This is my saloon and now I’m gonna
have to ask you to leave.
8.

Riley smiles. Runs his tongue up her face. Amy slowly lifts
the side of her skirt revealing a large, bead handled, knife
fastened to her leg. She slides it from its sheath and
presses the steel blade into his balls.
AMY (CONT’D)
With or without your two little
friends here.
Riley releases Amy and holds his balls.
Amy escorts Sarah up the stairs, while signaling Johnny to
ensure Riley leaves.
Lanny stumbles up to Riley.
LANNY
You just keep holdin’ on to them
there berries, cause that's the
only play they’re gonna get
tonight.
INT. BROTHEL BEDROOM - MOMENTS LATER
Sarah and Amy are in a room with two single beds. There is a
photo of the two of them with an older man.
SARAH
You do not always have to come to
my aid. I had the situation under
control.
AMY
It did not appear so.
SARAH
Ever since father died you act like
you are my mother and you’re not.
AMY
No, I am not. But I am the closes
thing you have to one.
Sarah throws a vase at Amy. She catches it.
SARAH
How would you know? Your mother was
a whore!
AMY
I don’t care a continental what my
mother was.
9.

SARAH
Cause she was whore.
AMY
I know what’s best for you.
SARAH
You couldn’t possibly. My mother
was a wholesome women and she loved
me.
AMY
I love you. But sometimes I’m not
sure why.
Sarah lays on the bed and looks at the photo of their father.
SARAH
I’m sorry. I just miss him. Why is
life so unfair?
AMY
Because it is. Do you think any of
this is what I wanted for my life?
INT. BROTHEL - DAY
There are no customers. Amy counts a stack of cash behind the
bar. Johnny is serving Dan whose eating lunch.
Burt comes waltzing in. Dan SNIFFS the air.
DAN
Johnny, do you smell bacon and
cheap cologne, or is that cat piss?
JOHNNY
Well friend that smell seems to be
coming from our buddy Burp here,
who has decided to grace us with
his presence and subsequently his
odor.
Dan slides his food away. The group LAUGHS, except Burt.
BURT
Let’s get something straight, first
of all its Burt, not Burp, I’m not
your buddy, and I’m the one who is
gonna be laughing if I don’t get my
money by tomorrow night per our
agreement.
10.

AMY
You’ll get your money.
BURT
We’ll see, if not, this place will
have new ownership.
Burt smiles fiendishly and leaves.
JOHNNY
Smell you later.
MILES, the town sheriff enters.
JOHNNY (CONT’D)
Howdy Sheriff.
MILES
Good day.
Miles puts one hand on Dan’s back, Dan shakes his other.
DAN
How ya doin’ Miles?
MILES
Oh, I can’t complain. I just
thought I’d stop in and check on my
favorite niece. Was Burt bothering
you?
AMY
He is always a bother. What was my
father thinking borrowing money
from that weasel?
MILES
My brother didn’t make the best
decisions but lord knows his heart
was always in the right place.
DAN
Amen.
JOHNNY
I’ll drink to that.
Amy pours a round of shots.
AMY
Here’s to a good man who never
stopped trying to be a better man.
11.

MEN
Here, here...
They all CLANK glasses and sling back their whiskey.
EXT. MIDDLE OF TOWN - DAY
Victor pulls into town on a carriage with Elizabeth, Will,
and Scout. Will is sketching a picture of Sarah. They stop.
Will aids Elizabeth and Scout down. Victor waits behind.
INT. GENERAL STORE - MOMENTS LATER
Will is gathering art supplies when he is alerted by Sarah’s
presence. Sarah and Amy are admiring a necklace.
SARAH
I can’t believe it is still here.
It’s so beautiful.
AMY
Come, we can’t afford such things.
Unnoticed, Will’s eyes remain fixed on Sarah as she leaves.
EXT. MIDDLE OF TOWN - MOMENTS LATER
Victor spots Amy and Sarah strolling down the street. Time
slows. He is transfixed on Amy until she is out of sight.
Will, clutching a small package, startles Victor back to
reality by jumping into the carriage.
VICTOR
Did you get what you wanted son?
WILL
(Devilishly)
Yeah.
VICTOR
What is taking your mother so long?
The STORE CLERK is looking through a log book.
12.

STORE CLERK
I’m sorry Mrs. Lawson, your
materials didn't come in today. I’m
sure they will be here tomorrow.
ELIZABETH
I certainly hope so. I will see you
then.
Elizabeth grabs Scout by the hand and storms out.
EXT. MEADOW - NIGHT
Will spreads out a quilt. A female figure approaches.
WILL
You came.
SARAH
Yes, but it wasn’t easy getting
away from that house of hens.
WILL
But you always seem to manage.
Will kisses her gently and lays her down on the blanket.
WILL (CONT’D)
I got something for you.
SARAH
What? For me?
Will pulls out a gift wrapped box.
SARAH (CONT’D)
What is it?
WILL
Open it.
Sarah opens the box, it is the necklace she had been admiring
in the store earlier.
Will puts it on her.
SARAH
How did you know?
WILL
I just thought it might complement
your bright smile.
13.

They make sweet love.
INT. BROTHEL - DAY
Elaine is playing Texas Holdem with a few local cowboys. Dan
is dealing, despite being blind he is doing a good job.
Johnny is behind the bar.
Elaine has a large pile of money and is reading everyone’s
tell.
COWBOY #1 picks up his cards.
COWBOY #1
Damn it!
DAN
Nice poker face, are you in or not?
COWBOY #1
Shit, I fold.
COWBOY #2 assesses his hand.
COWBOY #2
Hmmm, does the lady have it or not?
Elaine begins to fan herself with her cards.
ELAINE
I’m feeling a little flushed.
COWBOY #2
Ah, bullshit.
Cowboy #2 goes all in. COWBOY #3 throws his cards down.
COWBOY #3
I’m out.
Elaine matches the pot.
ELAINE
Let the best man win.
Dan deals revealing a low spade then a diamond.
ELAINE (CONT’D)
What do you have there buddy boy?
They each reveal their hands. They both have a flush but
Elaine wins with the higher card. She lets out a hardy LAUGH.
14.

DAN
What? What happened?
COWBOY #1
Well it looks like my boy here just
got spanked by a middle aged whore.
COWBOY #3
Isn’t the first time.
COWBOY #1
True, but I bet it ain’t never cost
that much before.
Elaine gathers the money and stuffs it into her bustle.
ELAINE
Nice doing business with you.
Cowboy #2 kicks over his chair and takes a seat at the bar.
Johnny pours him a drink
JOHNNY
Bend an elbow. This one’s on me.
INT. VICTOR LAWSON’S FARM HOUSE - DAY
Ben is packing a duffel bag. He checks the clock then leaves.
Elizabeth and Scout are shopping. Amy is also shopping and
oblivious to their presence.
ELIZABETH
Scout darling, please put that down
and accompany me over here.
Amy is now alerted to, and interested in Elizabeth.
INT. BURT’S HOUSE - MOMENTS LATER
Burt is standing in a second story window. He checks his
pocket watch, puffs his pipe, and peeks out the window.
INT. SHERIFF’S OFFICE - MOMENTS LATER
Miles and his DEPUTY are kicked back at their desks.
15.

EXT. BEHIND THE BROTHEL - MOMENTS LATER
Lanny, Riley, and their posse ride up. They fasten bandanas
around their faces. One man, ZANE, a dark and cold man,
refuses.
They all file into the brothel with their guns drawn. Zane
makes his way up the stairs.
LANNY
Everyone kindly, get down on the
fucking floor! Now!
Everyone drops except for Dan. Riley is agitated by this.
RILEY
Fffu..fucc..fuucckking..Get down!
LANNY
Forget about him. Just Get
everyone’s loot!
Lanny forces Johnny up and toward the cash register.
LANNY (CONT’D)
Empty it.
Riley goes through everyone’s pockets to claim their wallets,
until he gets to Elaine.
RILEY
You.. you got any pockets?
Riley goes to frisk Elaine. She smacks his hands away.
ELAINE
Watch it buddy. That kind of action
will cost you.
Riley flustered moves along. Elaine pushes a bill peeking out
back into her cleavage.
Johnny inadvertently cuts his eyes to a small box.
LANNY
Well, well, well, what do we have
here?
Lanny cocks his pistol.
LANNY (CONT’D)
Pick it up.
Johnny picks up the box.
16.

LANNY (CONT’D)
Open it.
Johnny opens the box revealing a large stack of money.
Lanny grabs the money and throws it into a bag. He calls up
the stairs to Zane.
LANNY (CONT’D)
Get the girl and pony up!
Time lapses.
LANNY (CONT’D)
Come on fellows, let’s go!
The posse files out.
LANNY (CONT’D)
Where the hell is Zane?
Zane is ransacking the room. Sarah and a couple of whores are
huddled in the corner. Zane spots the photograph of Amy with
her dad and Sarah. He picks it up.
Zane pulls Sarah out of the heap by her hair.
ZANE
Where is your sister?
SARAH
She is not here. I don’t know where
she is.
Sarah faints. Zane catches her. He cuts the gifted necklace
off her and lets her DROP to the floor.
Zane makes his way out and down the stairs. He FIRES his gun.
A chandelier come CRASHING down.
Dan, startled, pulls a gun FIRING nowhere near Zane. Zane
LAUGHS and exits.
EXT. BEHIND THE BROTHEL - MOMENTS LATER
LANNY
Well, where is she?
ZANE
She’s not here.
17.

LANNY
God damit! That fat bastard said
she’d be here!
RILEY
Yyyou.. used..
LANNY
Not now Riley. Fuck! Well, we got
our loot. Let’s skedaddle!
The posse rides off.
INT. SHERIFF’S OFFICE - MOMENTS LATER
Miles hears GUNFIRE. He and the deputy arm themselves. The
room is suddenly SPRAYED with gunfire as the posse passes
outside. Miles is hit in the arm.
As the posse rides through town, Zane sees Amy through the
window of the General Store. He aims to shoot her.
Amy stands in line. Elizabeth is in line behind her holding
Scout. Scout DROPS some change.
Zane FIRES.
Amy bends down to pick up the fallen change. The bullet
blazes through the window, Scout’s back, and into Elizabeth’s
heart. They DROP. Amy SCREAMS.
Ben rides up to see the posse riding away. He hears
SCREAMING. The store clerk carries the lifeless bodies into
the street. Ben runs up and grabs them both and collapses.
BEN
No. Oh God, no.
Ben SCREAMS. It ECHOES off into the distance. Then SILENCE.
18.

INT. BROTHEL - DAY
Johnny and Elaine, both in black, are cleaning up the
shattered bar. Burt enters, his STEPS fill the silence.
BURT
I see you are in your best bib and
tucker. You all headin’ somewhere?
SILENCE.
BURT (CONT’D)
What no chit chat today? As
promised I’m here to collect my
debt or collect my saloon. Which is
it gonna be?
Elaine stops and stares Burt down.
BURT (CONT’D)
It was unfortunate though, to hear
those bandits took you for all you
have. What a shame.
Burt gets in Johnny’s face. Johnny puffs up.
BURT (CONT’D)
What’s wrong funny guy? Cat got
your tongue?
Elaine breaks in the middle of the men.
ELAINE
I know you are behind this Burt
Myers. You had better watch your
back and sleep with one eye open
because when you’re not looking,
Satan himself will be coming for
you and your pathetic little soul.
Burt leans back. Elaine leans in closer.
ELAINE (CONT’D)
Amy! There’s a rat here to see you.
Amy enters stunning in black with a confident demeanor.
BURT
It’s pay day.
AMY
You know I don’t have it. We were
robbed.
19.

BURT
Oh no. Well we both know what that
means.
AMY
It means you’re an asshole.
ELAINE
Stop. I’ll handle this.
Elaine reaches into her cleavage and pulls out a wad of cash.
ELAINE (CONT’D)
Here’s you money asshole.
Elaine SMACKS the cash into Burt’s chest. He instinctively
catches most of it. Elaine throws Burt out onto the street.
She gathers a few missed bills and throws them out after him.
ELAINE (CONT’D)
It’s all there dickless!
Amy and Johnny are shocked.
ELAINE (CONT’D)
What? Do you think I stay here for
the money? Please.
JOHNNY
Just when I think I know you...
AMY
Thank you.
JOHNNY
Come on ladies, we have a funeral
to attend.
AMY
On second thought, I’m just gonna
stay here and clean up.
ELAINE
Are you sure honey?
AMY
Yeah, you all just go on with out
me and give Victor my best.
ELAINE
I think it would mean a lot more
coming from you. He was there for
you once... remember?
20.

AMY
Yes, I remember. I just can’t...
EXT. VICTOR LAWSON’S RANCH - DAY
Elizabeth and Scout are dressed in their finest and nestled
together in a single coffin. Victor and Ben stand stoically.
Will is shaken and holds Sarah’s hand.
REVEREND JOSEPH, closes his bible and looks down in prayer.
REVEREND JOSEPH
Amen.
EVERYONE
Amen.
Reverend Joseph approaches Victor.
REVEREND JOSEPH
May the love of Christ be with you,
to comfort you and guide you,
during this trying time.
Victor shakes the Reverend’s hand.
REVEREND JOSEPH (CONT’D)
Take solace in knowing that they
are together, safe, and eternal in
his all mighty kingdom.
VICTOR
(Knowingly agrees)
Yes.
Ben stares down at the coffin as it is being lowered into the
ground. He suddenly launches, throwing himself over the
wooden box. He begins to BEAT on it.
BEN
No. Please.
Victor waves the crowd, forming, off.
VICTOR
Ben, it will be okay.
BEN
No, it wont. Can’t you see? They’re
gone.
Victor places a strong hand on Ben’s back. Ben stands.
21.

BEN (CONT’D)
I’m gonna kill those sons of
bitches! I swear. I am. I’m gonna
find’em and I am gonna kill every
last one of’em.
VICTOR
And what good would that do?
BEN
What good would it do? It would
guarantee those bastards would
never hurt anyone again, that’s
what good it would do!
VICTOR
I suppose so, but it won’t bring
them back son. And you would
forever have to live with the
murder of those men on your soul.
Trust me, I know it’s a heavy
burden for a good man’s heart to
carry.
BEN
Are you saying we should let those
murderers get away with what they
did?!
VICTOR
No, the law will be after them. And
God, he has his own plan. I know
this is hard for you to understand
right now. Hell, it’s hard for us
all to understand..
BEN
Yeah, cause it’s bullshit.
VICTOR
One of the toughest challenges in
life is not letting the evil in
this world turn you into exactly
what you hate.
BEN
Killin em’ is not gonna make me one
of em.
VICTOR
I beg to differ.
BEN
What do you know of it anyway?
22.

VICTOR
More than you think.
MONTAGE:
Victor deep in thought sitting on his bed.
Ben working his hands bloody in the stables.
Will sits by the headstone of his mother’s grave sketching.
Victor receives a letter.
Victor’s bedroom is bare. He packs a box with one of Scout’s
toys and a picture of Elizabeth.
EXT. RIVER - DAY
Amy is fishing off the bank. Victor approaches.
VICTOR
I thought I might find you here.
AMY
This place holds a lot of fond
memories.
VICTOR
You know Amy, what happened was not
your fault.
Victor sits alongside Amy.
AMY
I don’t know, sometimes I would see
her around town and secretly wonder
why you were with her. I’m sorry.
VICTOR
Sorry about what?
AMY
I don’t know, everything I guess.
VICTOR
Amy, it’s okay, I know that you are
not good with things like this.
Amy keeps her gaze fixed on the water.
VICTOR (CONT’D)
We’re leaving Amy.
23.

Amy finally gives him the first look.
AMY
What? What do you mean?
VICTOR
I mean, me and the boys are moving.
AMY
Where?
VICTOR
Montana.
AMY
Montana? Why?
VICTOR
Well, in light of the news of
Elizabeth and Scouts passing, my
brother, Robert has sent word that
his ranch in Montana is in need of
some extra hands.
AMY
So you’re leaving to help your
brother?
VICTOR
Yes, there’s that and I think my
boys need a change of scenery. It
will be good for us all to be
around family right now.
AMY
Will you be returning?
VICTOR
No. I don’t think so.
AMY
What about Sarah? You know she
adores Will.
VICTOR
Since when have you wanted those
two to be together? I thought you
would at least be pleased about
that.
Amy looks away again.
24.

VICTOR (CONT’D)
It’s young love. They will get over
it.
AMY
Will I?
VICTOR
What?
AMY
I mean, will they?
VICTOR
Sure they will. You remember what
that’s like don’t you?
AMY
No. I don’t.
VICTOR
(Knowingly)
Right, you never had that luxury.
AMY
No. I didn’t. When are you leaving?
VICTOR
Tomorrow.
AMY
Tomorrow?
Victor stands and helps Amy to her feet.
VICTOR
Yes, but before I go. I wanted to
leave you with something.
Victor caresses Amy’s face and kisses her.
INT. BROTHEL BEDROOM - MORNING
Amy is having a horrific nightmare. She WHIMPERS.
FLASHBACK: 15 YEARS EARLIER
INT. BROTHEL BEDROOM - NIGHT
Amy is a young girl. She is in a nightgown pretending to be
asleep. The room is filled with dim light and smoke.
25.

Her mother CHARITY is at a nearby table drinking whiskey. Amy
peeks up at her mother with one eye.
CHARITY
What are you looking at?
AMY
Mommy, aren’t you gonna sleep?
There is a KNOCK at the door. Charity opens it.
It is two dirty cowboys. DIRTY COWBOY #1 is holding a bag.
CHARITY
Did you get it?
DIRTY COWBOY #1
Yeah, not so quick. Where is the
little filly you promised?
Charity opens the door wide revealing little Amy.
DIRTY COWBOY #2
You’re right. She is a pretty
little thing.
DIRTY COWBOY #1
Sweet meat. Just how I like em’.
The men enter. Amy SCREAMS.
RETURN TO PRESENT.
INT. BROTHEL BEDROOM - MORNING
Sarah is trying to wake Amy from her nightmare.
SARAH
Wake up. Amy wake up! Miss Elaine!
Help!
Elaine comes running in.
ELAINE
Oh my, how long has she been like
this?
SARAH
I don’t know. I just woke up to
find her this way.
26.

ELAINE
Here, move. I know what to do.
Elaine cradles Amy. She rocks her gently and SINGS her a
lullaby. Amy is now peaceful.
ELAINE (CONT’D)
Hand me that blanket.
Elaine covers Amy.
ELAINE (CONT’D)
(Whispering)
She’s okay.
SARAH
What was that?
ELAINE
Just a bad dream honey. She used to
get them a lot as a child.
SARAH
I wonder what sparked that?
ELAINE
Come. Let’s let her rest.
They exit.
Rain begins to POUR against the window.
Amy awakens. She goes to the window. She sees Victor, Ben,
and Will outside the brothel with their packed wagon. Sarah
runs up and embraces Will. They say their good-byes. Victor
senses Amy and looks toward her window. She hides.
Amy stays hidden until the WAGON pulls away.
EXT. GREAT PLAINS - DAY
Lanny, Zane, and a few posse members gather for coffee. Riley
is asleep holding a worn bible to his chest.
LANNY
I reckon that storm will be upon us
here soon if we don’t get a move
on.
ZANE
Yep.
27.

LANNY
I was thinking it’s about a half a
day’s ride to the next town.
Lanny points to the foothills of the Rockies.
LANNY (CONT’D)
If we follow that there ridge
north, we will cross a river, we
can water our horses there, then
pick up the rail headed west. That
will take us into the next town.
And the way I figure, we have
scored us enough loot to have us a
real fine time.
The posse begin to load up on their horses.
POSSE MEMBER #1
You ain’t worried about the law
catching up with us none?
LANNY
I don’t think they are gonna spend
much time fetching a pocket full of
whore house money.
POSSE MEMBER #2
I think he is talking about Zane
burning a hole through that woman
and her boy.
POSSE MEMBER #1
Yeah, ain’t many folks gonna take
kindly to no baby killer.
LANNY
What boy?
POSSE MEMBER #2
You know, in that store, I saw em,
it blazed right through em!
Lanny looks at Zane who is now mounted on his horse.
LANNY
Baby killin’ was never discussed in
our arrangement.
Zane draws his gun on Lanny.
28.

ZANE
Yeah, you’re right, but neither was
listening to that retard of yours
babbling all the fucking time.
Lanny puts his hands up defensively and kicks Riley. He
doesn’t wake.
ZANE (CONT’D)
I’ll be taking your stash there.
Lanny hands him a satchel.
ZANE (CONT’D)
Thank you, kindly. You are right,
this should render a real fine
time.
Zane looks to the foothills as the storm closes in.
ZANE (CONT’D)
So about a half a day’s ride huh?
Well then, I don’t see any need to
carry all this here baggage.
Zane SHOOTS many posse members. Lanny takes cover. Riley is
startled awake, he stands with a morning woody and his bible.
Zane aims to shoot Riley in the head. Riley looks down at his
erection. This momentarily distracts Zane. Riley chucks his
bible knocking Zane’s gun to the ground. Lanny retrieves it.
Zane draws a second weapon. There is a SHOOT out. Zane
retreats on his horse. Lanny and Riley are the last men
standing. The rest of the posse and all the horses are dead.
THUNDER CLAPS and rain begins to pour down.
INT. BROTHEL - MORNING
Amy enters the bar from a back room. Elaine is at the bar
smoking a cigar.
AMY
Good morning.
Elaine blows out a large bellow of smoke.
ELAINE
Good morning.
Elaine takes another puff and blows it in Amy’s face.
29.

AMY
It’s a little early for that isn’t
it? And since when have you started
smoking?
Elaine extinguishes the cigar.
ELAINE
Oh honey, I’m not smoking.
AMY
Then what are you doing?
Amy starts to wipe the bar down with a towel.
ELAINE
Well, I am sitting here taking
stock of the last time I saw Sarah
up and about. You know she has done
nothing but sleep in that bed since
her little artist boyfriend left
town.
AMY
So, she is taking it hard.
Elaine SCREECHES her stool back. She grabs the towel out of
Amy’s hand and the extinguished cigar butt.
ELAINE
I’m not so sure. I seem to have
another theory.
AMY
What are you talking about?
ELAINE
Just follow me.
Elaine climbs the stair case with Amy one step behind. She
pauses outside of Sarah’s bedroom door. Elaine hands Amy the
towel and the cigar butt.
AMY
What are we doing up here?
ELAINE
Just follow my lead.
Elaine cocks her leg and KICKS the door wide open.
30.

Elaine rushes to Sarah’s bedside where she is sleeping.
ELAINE
Wake up!
Elaine pulls Sarah up and out of bed.
SARAH
What do you want?
Elaine looks Sarah in the eyes, she then moves her gaze down
to Sarah’s breast, Elaine cups them both and squeezes.
SARAH (CONT’D)
Owe! Stop. What is wrong with you?!
Elaine cuts her eyes to Amy, grabs the cigar butt, and wafts
it under Sarah’s nose. Sarah dry heaves instantly.
Elaine swiftly takes the towel from Amy, she cradles it under
Sarah’s face. Sarah vomits into it. Elaine gathers the
corners of the towel and hands it back to Amy. Amy takes it.
ELAINE
Yeah, just as I suspected. She’s
got a bun it that oven.
AMY
Is this true Sarah? Is that even
possible?
SARAH
Yes. I suppose so.
ELAINE
Oh boy... or girl.
Sarah looks down and holds her belly amazed.
INT. BROTHEL BEDROOM - NIGHT
Sarah is sleeping soundly. Amy is restless. Amy lights a
lantern and opens an old trunk.
Amy pulls out a worn cowboy hat. She tries it on. She then
takes out a pair of boots. She lifts her foot to the sole to
find they are a good fit. Amy takes out a worn leather jacket
and then a gun belt and holster with two pistols.
31.

She is, now wearing the cowboy gear and goes over to a full
length mirror. She mimics a manly stance and then draws the
pistols with much skill and precision.
Amy returns to the chest. At the bottom is a journal. She
reads it cover to cover, experiencing a gamut of emotions.
Inside the back cover she finds a photo of her father on a
horse, a map, and a yellow feather.
INT. BROTHEL - NIGHT
Elaine is armed with a shot gun. She aims it down the stairs
at the figure of a cowboy.
ELAINE
Excuse me cowboy, can I help you?
Elaine tightens her finger against the trigger.
ELAINE (CONT’D)
If you’d like to keep your head. I
suggest you answer me cowboy.
The figure removes its hat.
AMY
(Whispering)
Elaine, it’s me Amy!
ELAINE
What the hell are you doing dressed
like that? I almost blew your head
off!
AMY
Shhh, get down here before you wake
the whole house.
Elaine throws the gun over her shoulder and saunters down.
She sizes up Amy and pours herself a shot. She slings it
back.
ELAINE
I think I’m gonna need another.
AMY
Give me that.
Amy confiscates the bottle.
ELAINE
Okay sugar, what’s goin’ on?
32.

AMY
It’s Sarah. I think about her and
how she is stuck in this town, how
she hasn’t had the chance to live,
you know, really live. And now she
is pregnant with a bastard child,
alone, and heartbroken. What kind
of a life is that?
Elaine grabs the bottle and swigs off the top.
ELAINE
Yeah, sounds like a bum rap. But,
the last I checked she seemed
pretty happy about this baby and
content on the fact that Will said
he’d be back for her one day. Okay,
problem solved. Now stand down
cowboy and let’s go get some sleep.
Amy twists her hair up and puts on the cowboy hat.
AMY
No. You don’t get it. Something
more has got to be out there
waiting for her. So I am going to
go and find Will and tell him about
this baby. I am going to fix this.
ELAINE
Now hold on just a minute. You
never let those two spend any time
together, so why do you care now?
AMY
I don’t know. I just do.
ELAINE
Okay? I’m not so sure you are
talking about Sarah, honey. This
wouldn’t have anything to do with
Victor would it? I’ve seen the way
you two look at each other. I know
you are just friendly folk and all
but there is no hiding from
chemistry like that. Although I am
not sure it’s worth dying over.
Amy starts to leave.
AMY
Elaine, all I know is that I have
to go. I can’t stay here any
longer.
(MORE)
33.

I’d rather go out there and die
than to be trapped here for one
more day not living.
ELAINE
Oh, I see. Okay then.
Amy heads towards the alley. Elaine grabs the shotgun and
follows her out.
EXT. BEHIND THE BROTHEL - NIGHT
In the alley stands a old worn down horse. Amy mounts the
horse it makes an odd NOISE in response.
ELAINE
So, what is your plan?
AMY
Well, me and Molly here...
Amy PATS the side of the horse.
ELAINE
Don’t do that. You might break her
hip.
AMY
We plan on heading due west,
picking up the range and following
the river north towards Montana. I
should make pretty good time...
ELAINE
Not on that crow bait...
AMY
... and I could catch up with
Victor and his boys. I’m thinking,
oh maybe within a week’s time.
ELAINE
You’re gonna die. You know that
don’t you?
Elaine slides the shotgun into Amy’s bed roll, then starts to
pull Amy down.
AMY
Stop. Let me go! I can do this!
AMY (CONT'D)
34.

ELAINE
Not on that geriatric nag you
can’t. Now get down.
Amy dismounts. Elaine starts to mount Molly somewhat
unsuccessfully.
AMY
What are you doing?
ELAINE
Just help me.
Amy pushes Elaine’s behind with both hands. Elaine adjusts
herself and grabs the reins.
ELAINE (CONT’D)
Wait here, I’ll be back shortly.
It takes Elaine some effort to get Molly going. They ride
off, slowly, down the dark alley.
INT. BEDROOM UNKNOWN FARM HOUSE - NIGHT
FREDDIE, a man who is almost bald, sleeps next to a burly
woman.
Elaine slowly crawls into the room, to Freddie’s bedside.
ELAINE
Psssst.
Elaine shakes Freddie.
ELAINE (CONT’D)
Psssst. Freddie.
FREDDIE
Not now Margaret.
ELAINE
Freddie it’s me Elaine.
Freddie sits up with a smile.
FREDDIE
What are you doing here? If my wife
sees you she’s gonna kill me.
ELAINE
I need you. Now. Meet me at the
barn.
35.

Elaine crawls away. Freddie slicks down a couple of lone,
stray hairs.
INT. BARN - NIGHT
Elaine has Molly tied up inside. She is brushing the mane of
a gorgeous white stallion.
Freddie, behind Elaine, throws his arms around her.
FREDDIE
Oh Elaine, I was hoping you’d come
to me.
ELAINE
Freddie, a woman with my animal
like desires cannot resist a man of
your prowess.
Elaine turns towards Freddie and starts to brush his hairs.
ELAINE (CONT’D)
I want you, I want you real bad.
Freddie starts to remove his britches. Elaine stops him.
ELAINE (CONT’D)
Just not right now.
FREDDIE
But why not? We are so good at it.
ELAINE
Yes we are darling but it will just
have to wait. I need a favor.
FREDDIE
Anything for you Elaine.
EXT. BEHIND THE BROTHEL - NIGHT
Amy is pacing. She hears GALLOPING hooves approaching. Elaine
rides up on a white stallion loaded with gear.
Elaine, dwarfed by the stallion, stops in front of Amy and
slides down off the side of the horse.
AMY
Where is Molly?
ELAINE
This is your horse now. Get on!
36.

AMY
What? But how?
Amy mounts the horse, sizing up the beautiful animal.
Elaine hands Amy the reins.
ELAINE
Honey, how many times have I told
you, be good at what you do, well
let’s just say I take those words
to heart.
Amy looks like a cowboy mounted on the stallion.
Elaine takes notice of Amy’s beautiful face and her girly
hands. Elaine pulls a pair of gloves and a bandana out of the
horse’s satchel.
ELAINE (CONT’D)
Here, put these on.
Amy does as told.
ELAINE (CONT’D)
Wait something is missing.
Elaine rolls off one of her stockings and rolls it into a
ball. She hands it to Amy.
ELAINE (CONT’D)
Here, shove this into the front of
your pants. Lord knows you have
some big balls right now, but let’s
create the visual effect to go with
em.
Amy complies.
AMY
Elaine, I just want you to know...
Elaine hears a NOISE in the distance.
ELAINE
Someone is coming...
Elaine SMACKS the horse’s rear end.
ELAINE (CONT’D)
Hey ya!
The horse takes off like a rocket. Amy’s hat falls over her
eyes.
37.

AMY’S POV: It is black. Amy is deafened by the sound of her
BREATHING and the rhythmic DRUMMING of the horse’s hooves.
She gains control of the reins and lifts the brim of her hat.
She looks at the sunrise on the broad horizon.
EXT. GREAT PLAINS - MORNING
Victor rides alongside the wagon. Ben is at the reins. Will
is asleep next to him. Victor spots something.
VICTOR
Hold on. You stay here. I’m gonna
go scout it out.
Ben stops the wagon and sits back.
Victor gets closer. It’s the carnage of Lanny’s dead posse.
He dismounts and assesses the scene. There are several shell
casings and one set of hoof tracts headed west.
Ben approaches in the wagon.
VICTOR (CONT’D)
It looks like this gang of cowboys
must have had some sort of
altercation.
Ben stops the wagon.
VICTOR (CONT’D)
It seems the culprit took off by
horseback, headed west. There were
two survivors, who headed in the
same direction, together, on foot.
Victor kicks one of the dead cowboys over revealing his face.
Ben takes notice. He jumps down and joins his father. Ben
covers his nose and looks at the dead man with disdain.
VICTOR (CONT’D)
Son, do you know this man?
BEN
No, I’ve never seen him before in
my life. Now let’s get out of here.
VICTOR
Sure, right after we bury these
here boys. Fetch us a couple of
shovels.
38.

BEN
I’m not burying any of these
assholes. If they were dumb enough
to die out here, then let the
vultures have at em.
VICTOR
We are gonna give these boys a
proper burial. Now get the shovels.
Ben heads to the back of the wagon and grabs two shovels. He
throws one to Victor and swings the other hitting Will.
BEN
Wake up!
WILL
What is going on?
BEN
Our father wants to bury some
deadbeats. So it’s your time to man
up and stop being so useless.
WILL
What are you taking about?
BEN
Oh, I don’t know. Why don’t you dig
a few graves...
Ben jumps in the carriage.
BEN (CONT’D)
While I sit up here and draw a
picture of it.
Ben grabs Will’s sketch pad and pencil.
BEN (CONT’D)
Go ahead, start diggin, this is
gonna be my masterpiece.
Will jumps down. Grabs the shovel. And joins his father
digging.
LATER:
They have buried all the men and are drinking some water.
Ben, still sitting in the carriage has in fact been drawing.
He has sketched a picture of Zane, Lanny, and Riley. He tears
the paper from the pad and puts it in his pocket.
39.

Amy is riding along, taking in the scenery. She spots a small
pond and stops to water her horse.
Amy is wading in the water when she spots an approaching
rider. She quickly exits and dons her hat and bandana.
The approaching rider picks up speed. One of his arms is in a
sling.
MILES
Howdy.
AMY
(Deep voice)
Howdy.
MILES
It’s a pretty day out here.
AMY
Yep.
MILES
You travelin alone?
AMY
Yep. I don’t do well amongst
people.
MILES
I don’t mean you any harm. I am a
sheriff in a nearby town, over
yonder. I am out hear trying to
spread the word about some outlaws.
Miles hands Amy a wanted poster with, Lanny, Riley, and
Zane’s faces. Amy adjusts her “man parts” and takes it.
MILES (CONT’D)
Have you seen any of these men?
AMY
No, ain’t see em.
MILES
Well, if you do run across them, be
careful, they are real dangerous
men. They murdered a woman and her
boy in cold blood and took my
nieces for all they have. And did a
number on my arm here.
40.

Miles looks at Amy’s horse.
MILES (CONT’D)
That is some stallion you have
there. Do you mind if I take a look
at him?
AMY
I don’t think that is a good idea.
He don’t take to strangers.
MILES
Okay, right. Thanks for your time.
Miles rides off.
EXT. RIVER’S EDGE - AFTERNOON
Lanny and Riley look haggard. Lanny hobbles into the water to
drink it.
Riley sits down on the bank and removes his boots. It has
been a rough journey by foot and it shows in his feet.
Once quenched, Lanny lays back and floats.
LANNY
Get in. The water’s nice.
RILEY
Yyyyoouu.. You know I I can’t swim.
LANNY
(Laughing)
Yeah, I know.
RILEY
(Outburst)
Shit! Fuck!
LANNY
It sure feels good though. Answer
me one thing. How the hell do you
plan on crossing this here river?
Suddenly they hear a CRACKING branch just in the distance.
They take cover. Riley has left his bible and boots behind. A
wagon approaches. They can’t quite see who it is. Riley’s
face begins to twitch wildly.
RILEY
(Outburst)
Fuck! Titty! Fuckers!
41.

Ben charges the reads like a wild animal. He drags Riley out
and gets off several punches before Lanny and Victor separate
the entangled men.
VICTOR
Whoa, son calm down.
LANNY
Ben, its okay. It’s me Lanny. Man
are you a sight for sore eyes.
Ben charges Lanny.
BEN
You son of a bitch! You killed my
mother you asshole!
Ben wails on Lanny. Riley tries to help. Ben tackles Riley
into the water. Ben submerges Riley’s face.
BEN (CONT’D)
And you, you sick bastard! He was
just a boy and you killed him!
It takes Victor, Lanny, and Will to get Ben off of Riley.
Riley lays floating in the water. The current begins to carry
him away. Lanny tries but is too injured to help.
LANNY
Help him. Please! He can’t swim! He
ain’t killed nobody, Please. It was
Zane. He killed them. I can help
you find him.
Victor springs into action saving Riley from the rapids.
Victor pulls Riley to shore and beats his chest until he
GASPS for air.
VICTOR
I am not burying another body
today. We are going to escort these
two men into the next town. We are
going to turn what’s left of them
over to the law, and we are going
to let them handle this from here
on out. Do you understand?
SILENCE.
VICTOR (CONT’D)
Ben, do you understand?
42.

BEN
(Reluctantly)
Yes.
VICTOR
Yes what?
BEN
Yes, sir.
EXT. JUST OUTSIDE OF WESTERN TOWN #2 - DAY
Victor is leading his boys towards town. Lanny and Riley’s
wrists are bound and fastened to the back of the Wagon. Their
feet are bare. Will keeps alternating the pace of the horses.
LANNY
Come on! This still can’t be
entertaining to you fellas.
Ben and Will LAUGH. One of the horses shits.
BEN
Do it again.
Will turns the carriage slightly leading Riley to step in the
shit pile. It SQUISHES.
RILEY
AWWWWW, SSSHHHHIT!
Again the boys LAUGH.
EXT. CENTER OF BUSTLING WESTERN TOWN #2 - DAY
The Lawson boys take in the busy pace of the town. Victor
leads the group to the sheriff’s office.
INT. COUNTY JAIL TOWN #2 - MOMENTS LATER
Victor enters the jailhouse. Ben pulls Lanny and Riley in
with a swift tug on their ropes. The local sheriff, PLEASANT
MCLEOD, stands to greet them.
PLEASANT
Good day.
VICTOR
Good day. I’m Victor Lawson and
these here are my two sons Ben and
Will.
43.

PLEASANT
Nice to meet you. My name is,
Pleasant Mcleod, I’m the law around
here. What can I do you for?
VICTOR
We are here to deliver these two
wanted outlaws.
BEN
Murdering outlaws!
The sheriff looks Lanny and Riley over.
PLEASANT
Awe, yeah.
The sheriff points towards a wanted poster of Lanny, Riley
and Zane.
PLEASANT (CONT’D)
We got word that they killed a
mother and her young son in broad
day light.
VICTOR
It was my wife and my son.
PLEASANT
I’m sorry. And you had enough
restraint to bring them in alive.
Well, you are a much better man
than I am.
The sheriff takes the ropes from Ben. He unties the men and
locks them up in a jail cell.
PLEASANT (CONT’D)
They have already been sentenced to
hang, you know. So, I guess we will
have us a hanging here to look
forward to tomorrow. Any news on
the third man?
LANNY
You mean the real murderer!
PLEASANT
I suggest you shut your trap if you
know what’s good for you. It sounds
to me that you should have minded
the company you kept a little
better.
44.

Pleasant looks at Riley who has his head buried in his bible.
PLEASANT (CONT’D)
And as for you, if you spent your
time practicing the words of that
book instead of reading them, you
wouldn’t even be in this mess.
VICTOR
It seems the third man took off.
PLEASANT
A shame, we’ll just have to find
him and hang him another day. Until
then, do you all have a place to
stay?
VICTOR
No, this was a detour for us.
Pleasant puts his hand on Victor’s shoulder to lead him out.
PLEASANT
Well, I can help you with that too.
Pleasant CLOSES the door leaving Riley and Lanny there alone.
LANNY
I know we’ve been in some binds
before and I don’t mean to be a
real croaker but I think we’ve
gotten ourselves into a heap of
trouble this time and we are gonna
pay through the nose with our
lives.
Riley’s face begins to twitch wildly.
LANNY (CONT’D)
What does that there book say about
redemption?
RILEY
I ddddon’t knnnow.
LANNY
What do you mean you don’t know?
You keep you damn head buried in
that thing. Now what does it say?
RILEY
I dddon’t knnnow.
45.

LANNY
Fine, just read me something!
Anything.
RILEY
Nnnno. I cccan’t...I mean..I I
I..can’t read. I ain’t nnnever
learned how.
Lanny is surprised. He takes the bible out of Riley’s shaky
hands. He sits down and opens the book.
LANNY
In the beginning God created the
heavens and the Earth. The Earth
was without form and voice, and
darkness was over the face of the
deep. And the spirit of God was
hovering over the face of the
waters.
Riley stills.
LANNY (CONT’D)
And God said, “Let there be light”
and there was light. And God saw
that the light was good. And God
separated the light from the
darkness.
MONTAGE:
We see Lanny continue to read.
He turns page after page.
Gallows are being erected just outside their jail cell.
Night falls.
Lanny continues to read to Riley by the light of the moon.
EXT. GREAT PLAINS - NIGHT
Amy is asleep under the stars. Her horse is tied to a lone
tree. Amy is having a nightmare. She thrashes, then wakes
abruptly with a GASP.
AMY’S POV: She is staring into the eyes of a coiled up rattle
snake. The snake strikes. Amy reacts.
46.

The snake misses. Amy rolls to her feet and pulls her pistol.
She fires one SHOT. Hitting the snake dead on.
A shiver runs up her spine. She reacts again. This time
UNLOADING her weapon at the dead snake. Her last SHOT
RICOCHETS off a nearby rock. The stray bullet nips a buffalo
just off in the darkness.
The wounded buffalo lets out a primal MOAN. Amy starts to
make out the shape of the buffalo. Several other buffalo
respond to the call with GRUNTS, SNORTS, and MOANS. The herd
begins to shift starting a STAMPEDE.
Amy attempts to run to the nearby tree. She is being knocked
over and bumped with her every advance. The ground SHAKES and
RUMBLES. Her horse NEIGHS in distress. Amy finally makes it
to the tree.
She tries to untie the horse but is unsuccessful. She climbs
into the tree. The limb SNAPS, she falls, and her horse, now
free, gets caught up in the momentum of the heard. He’s gone.
The herd dissipates. Amy is injured and remains curled up.
EXT. GREAT PLAINS - MORNING
Amy slowly opens her eyes. She struggles to her feet. She
makes her way over to her campsite. She spots her hat, dusts
it off, and puts it on. She sees her pistol. She lifts it.
It’s bent. She spots her second pistol. It too has been bent.
AMY
No.
INT. JAIL HOUSE TOWN #2 - MORNING
Lanny continues to read. Riley hangs on his every word.
LANNY
(Raspy)
The angel said to me, “these words
are trustworthy and true. The Lord,
the God of the spirits of the
prophets, sent his angel to show
his servants the things that must
soon take place.
HAMMERING is coming from outside. Lanny pauses, then peers
between the bars of the window.
RILEY
What, wwwhat is it?
47.

LANNY
Nothing... Where was I, oh yes,
Jesus is coming. “Behold, I am
coming soon! Blessed is he who
keeps the words of the prophecy in
this book.
Pleasant enters with a group of men.
PLEASANT
Here they are gentlemen.
Pleasant UNLOCKS the cell door. Lanny DROPS the bible. The
men engulf Lanny and Riley. They drag them out.
EXT. MAIN STREET TOWN #2 - MOMENTS LATER
Lanny and Riley are lead forcefully to the gallows. A noose
is wrapped around each of their necks. A large crowd forms.
Lanny spots the Lawson family.
RILEY
Thhhank you Lanny, for sssaving me.
LANNY
You saved me friend. I’ll see you
on the other side.
A man kicks Riley forward. He hangs.
Lanny spots Zane in the crowd. Lanny signals Ben with a
WHISTLE.
LANNY (CONT’D)
It’s Zane! Behind you!
Lanny spits at the hangman, jumps forward, and hangs himself.
Ben turns to see Zane just behind him. Ben draws his gun and
starts to take off. Victor grabs him firmly by the arm.
VICTOR
Son, don’t do this.
BEN
I have to. This is what I came here
to do!
VICTOR
There is a better way.
Ben rips his arm free.
48.

BEN
Don’t wait around for me.
Ben mounts a horse. He sees Zane moving through the crowd.
Zane mounts a horse and the chase is on! Ben closes in and
FIRES. Zane FIRES back.
They align alongside a moving train. The locomotive CHUGS
full speed ahead towards a tunnel. Zane reaches for and grabs
the train. Ben shoots Zane’s horse. Zane’s horse rolls out
from under him. Ben’s horse jumps the fallen horse.
Ben grabs Zane’s leg, he tries to pull him down while gauging
the timing of the enclosing mountain face. Ben is running out
of time. Ben let’s go. Zane slips into the train car. The
mountain swallows him. Ben stops on point at the rock face.
Amy looks small against the vast landscape. She is headed
west on foot. She is unkempt, confused, and dehydrated.
We can sense time is passing as the scenery and sunlight
change. Amy’s gait begins to change. Eventually she trips
over the grave of one of the dead posse members.
AMY’S POV: She sees the rotting carcass of a dead horse.
AMY
Oh no, Molly?
Amy hears Elaine’s boisterous LAUGH.
AMY (CONT’D)
Elaine? Where are you?
Amy retches.
AMY (CONT’D)
What’s that smell?
AMY’S POV: Amy sees a very pregnant Sarah.
AMY (CONT’D)
Sarah, what are you doing here? You
need to go home.
Amy passes out.
49.

EXT. MAIN STREET TOWN #2 - AFTERNOON
Victor and Will are loaded up on the carriage. Victor checks
his pocket watch.
WILL
Can we just wait a little longer? I
know he will be back.
VICTOR
I don’t believe he will. But we can
give him one more hour. Then we are
heading on with or without him.
WILL
Thank you.
EXT. GREAT PLAINS - AFTERNOON
Amy is being nudged awake by her horse. She opens her eyes.
AMY
(Raspy)
Oh, thank God!
Amy pulls a canteen down from the saddle. There is little
water to be had. She drinks it. She rubs the horse’s snout.
AMY (CONT’D)
Thank you. You are a savior. That
is what I will call you, Savior.
Amy manages to mount SAVIOR. She passes out again.
EXT. RIVER’S EDGE - SUNSET
Savior wades into the water. He bucks Amy off. She wakes up
with the SPLASH. She LAUGHS, then CRIES, she smiles
peacefully and floats back into the water.
EXT. RIVER’S EDGE - NIGHT
Amy is clean and asleep next to a campfire. Outwardly she
appears as a man with her hat tipped down low. She has bound
Savior to a rope and has the other end tied around her wrist.
UNKNOWN POV: Amy is being watched.
We see three Crow Indians emerge from the brush.
50.

BLACK HEART, is a tall male Indian, in his late teens, with
an athletic build. He has long dark hair, which is in two
side braids, with a front pompadour. His face is covered in
white war paint with black stripes. His eyes are crystal
blue. He looks menacing and is armed with a tomahawk.
The two other Indians are merely boys. They follow Black
Heart’s lead as he descends on the campsite.
Black Heart’s shadow engulfs Amy. He lifts his tomahawk. He
swings the sharp blade down but stops short of severing the
halter rope when Amy lifts her wrist to her forehead,
knocking her hat off. Her hair spills out across his feet.
Black Heart stares at her. His companions gesture him to
finish the job. Black Heart steps back allowing the light of
the campfire to illuminate Amy. Black Heart gestures to the
“Great Spirt” and then retreats, calling them off.
EXT. LAWSON CAMPSITE - NIGHT
Victor and Will have moved on without Ben.
EXT. AMY’S CAMPSITE RIVER’S EDGE - NIGHT
Amy is awakened by Indian war WHOOPS and GUNFIRE, just off in
the distance. She unties Savior and pulls out her shotgun.
The two young Crow Indians emerge on horseback. A
semiconscious Black Heart is draped over one of their horses.
Amy aims to shoot. Crow Indian boy #1 holds his hands up.
Crow Indian boy #2 DROPS Black Heart at her feet. She GASPS.
Black Heart is covered in blood and he has an arrow impaled
in his side. Crow Indian boy #1 puts his hands down slowly.
He then gestures to the Great Spirit, to Black Heart, then to
Amy.
AMY
You’re not gonna leave him here.
Indian boy #2 offers Amy a bow with a beautiful carved horse
on it. She takes it reluctantly. The Indian boys ride off.
AMY (CONT’D)
Where are you going? Come back!
Amy hears more Indian war WHOOPS, now close. Amy looks at
Black Heart. He reaches his hand up towards her.
AMY (CONT’D)
Shit.
51.

Amy tucks the bow into her saddle bag. She drags Black Heart
to the river. She leads Savior down to the river. She floats
Black Heart onto Saviors back. She holds her shotgun over
head as they tread across stream.
Amy and Savior work hard against the current. Something bumps
into Amy. It’s the dead body of Crow Indian boy #1. Amy
pushes the body out of the way and continues on. They make it
to the other side.
Amy takes cover. Savior make his way to a nearby ridge and is
pacing with Black Heart still draped over him.
AMY’S POV: Across the river Amy sees Crow Indian boy #2
stumble up to her campsite. He is being shot at with several
arrows. He’s hit. He goes down.
Several Sioux Indian warriors emerge over the fallen boy. One
Sioux male WHOOPS and scalps him. Amy sets up aim on him with
her shotgun. She waits. The Sioux retreat.
Two Sioux Indians, breathing out of hallow reeds, make their
way down river, out of site from Amy.
Sioux Indian #1 emerges from the water armed with a Bowie
knife. He has his sights set on Black Heart and Savior on the
ridge. Amy spots him. Sioux Indian #1 launches off a boulder,
just over top of Amy. She lays back and SHOOTS him dead.
Sioux Indian #2 springs from the water and charges Amy. She
SHOOTS him dead.
The group of Sioux Indian Warriors head back towards the
campsite. Amy, now out of ammo, runs up the ridge, and mounts
Savior. We see Amy ride Savior, with Black Heart draped over
him high into the cover of the Rocky Mountains.
EXT. SOUTH WESTERN MONTANA - DAY
Victor and Will sit together in the carriage. Riding along
the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. Victor is at the reins
and offers Will a piece of jerky.
VICTOR
You haven’t said a word in hours.
Look around you son. This place is
grand. I would think you of all
people would enjoy a picturesque
view like this.
WILL
Yeah, it’s nice.
52.

VICTOR
This is about missing Sarah, isn’t
it? You’re merely between hay and
grass son. You have plenty of time.
Who knows you might meet someone
new who strikes your fancy.
WILL
I don’t want to meet someone new. I
have met plenty of girls and she is
the one, the only one who does that
thing to me. You wouldn’t
understand.
VICTOR
I understand more than you know.
You and I were cut from the same
cloth. My heart seems to have
knowledge of things my head just
can’t understand.
WILL
Yeah, it’s not what I’m thinking
about though. It’s Ben and his
choices. I just flat out don’t
understand em. I mean why wouldn’t
you want to preserve the only
family you have left? Instead, he
is out there risking his life
seeking vengeance for two people
who are gone.
VICTOR
Yeah. He is.
WILL
You know, when they hung those two
men. I didn’t feel the innocence of
Scout or the grace of Mother in
that. Honestly, I just felt kind of
sorry for them. I tried to enjoy
it, like Ben, but frankly I hated
it. I hated everything about it.
VICTOR
When heaven was dealing out hearts
boy, they dealt you a big one. You
were made to focus on the beauty in
this world. It is a gift, it is who
you are. But unfortunately it
doesn’t come that easy for a lot of
us.
53.

WILL
Yeah, I guess.
VICTOR
There was a time I wasn’t much
different from your brother but
I’ve changed. You know, there is a
fine line that exists between love
and hate. It’s easy to teeter on
that razor’s edge and just the
right amount of force can push you
over, either way. But here’s the
thing, it’s simple. We always have
a choice.
WILL
A choice?
VICTOR
Yes. You can either choose to come
from a place of love or a place of
fear.
WILL
Fear? Fear of what?
VICTOR
Change.
WILL
Change?
VICTOR
Yeah, change! It makes folks
nervous. Change can happen slowly
or quick like a strike of lightning
but it is always gonna happen.
WILL
So?
VICTOR
So, when people fear change they
try to control it but they can’t.
It can make even a good man act
crazy. I’ve seen it. I’ve lived it.
But now, I just try to rise above
it. I have found that everything
looks very different when you’ve
got a bird’s eye view.
Will relaxes. Looks at the scenery. A bald eagle flies over.
54.

EXT. ROCKY MOUNTAINS - MORNING
Amy is weary. The rays of the sun are dispersed from the
canopy of aspens. She rides into a clearing surrounded by a
small mountain lake. It’s majestic.
AMY
Wow.
Amy navigates Savior under a natural rock enclosure. She
pulls down her bedroll and curls up on the ground. Injured
Black Heart remains draped over Savior.
EXT. LAWSON RANCH MONTANA - DAY
Victor and Will approach. The ranch is thriving. It is full
of cattle, horses, and ranch hands. The land has a view of
the snowcapped Rockies and the river, a barn, bunk house, and
a huge cabin.
INT. KITCHEN LAWSON CABIN - DAY
The curtains are blowing in with the breeze. BONNIE LAWSON, a
voluptuous and kind woman, looks out the window. She sees
Victor and Will approaching.
EXT. FRONT PORCH LAWSON CABIN - MOMENTS LATER
Bonnie runs out the front door, wipes her hands on her apron.
BONNIE
Come Robert, they’re here!
INT. LAWSON MONTANA BARN - DAY
ROBERT LAWSON is helping one of his ranch hands birth a foal.
He is a born leader with a strong build and an even stronger
presence. He washes his hands in a pale and exits.
EXT. LAWSON RANCH MONTANA - MOMENTS LATER
Robert joins Bonnie. They watch the approaching wagon arrive.
Victor smiles, stops the carriage, jumps down, and gives
Robert a big hug. Robert looks Victor over.
ROBERT
My God, baby brother it’s good to
see you!
55.

VICTOR
It’s been too long! You look good.
Robert pulls Bonnie in.
ROBERT
It’s all because of Bonnie here.
She takes real good care of me.
Bonnie gives Victor a long embrace.
BONNIE
Oh honey, it’s great to see you and
I’m so sorry. I’ve sent many a
prayer up for you.
VICTOR
Thank you Bonnie.
Bonnie looks up at Will still sitting in the carriage. She
gestures him down. He jumps down and joins them. Robert
shakes Will’s hand.
ROBERT
I’m your uncle Robert.
WILL
Hi, nice to meet you. I’m...
ROBERT
...Don’t tell me. You must be
William.
WILL
Will.
Robert looks down at their hands.
ROBERT
Yes, well that girly handshake and
this baby fine skin gave it away.
You must be the artist.
Will pulls his hand back defensively.
ROBERT (CONT’D)
Well, that’s gonna change. There’s
not gonna be much time for art
around here.
Bonnie pushes Robert back playfully and hugs Will.
56.

BONNIE
He’s just pullin your leg baby,
it’s so good to finally meet you.
WILL
Yes, you too.
ROBERT
I can’t get over those damn powder
puffs. I suggest you don’t shake
hands with any of the round-up gang
either.
WILL
The round up gang?
ROBERT
Yeah, that’s what I call all my
ranch hands. And if they feel that
soft velvety skin, they will eat
you alive.
Bonnie grabs Will’s hand and escorts him away.
BONNIE
Don’t listen to him. Come let me
introduce you to your family.
ROBERT
Where is Benjamin? I could sure use
a bronc buster like him around
here.
VICTOR
He will be along in his own time.
Robert and Victor follow Bonnie and Will towards the cabin.
ROBERT
He can pull his weight around here,
can’t he?
VICTOR
I don’t know. He has never really
had to with Ben around. You know
how big brothers can be. They’re an
overbearing bread.
ROBERT
Right! Well, if he can’t I could
sure use a nice picture for over
the fireplace.
They LAUGH.
57.

INT. LIVING ROOM LAWSON CABIN - MOMENTS LATER
The room is grand and cozy. By the window lay two elderly
women in a large wooden bed. FRANCES is in her sixties. She’s
frail yet feisty. GAMMY MAC is in her eighties and hard of
hearing. She uses an ear trumpet to aid her.
Will and Bonnie enter.
FRANCES
Where have you been? We are burning
up in here.
GAMMY MAC
Huh? What did you say?
Frances lifts Gammy’s ear trumpet to her mouth.
FRANCES
I was saying it is hot in here!
GAMMY MAC
Oh, yes it feels good.
BONNIE
I’ll open a window.
GAMMY MAC
Who is this dear?
BONNIE
(Loud)
Gammy, this is Will my nephew.
Remember, I told you he was coming
to live with us.
GAMMY MAC
Oh, yes dear. She is always singing
your praises.
BONNIE
Will, this is my mother Frances and
my grandmother Gammy Mac.
GAMMY MAC
What?
FRANCES
(Yelling)
It’s Will, her nephew.
58.

GAMMY MAC
Yes. I know. Will, my ears may fail
me but my eyes sure don’t. You are
quite a fine looking young fellow.
WILL
Thank you.
GAMMY MAC
You must have a lady friend?
WILL
Yes ma’am I do. Her name is Sarah.
I hope to bring her here one day. I
mean if that is okay with you all.
BONNIE
Sweetie, the one thing you need to
know about me is that I love, love.
God never blessed me with any
children of my own, but I think
that’s why he keeps sending me so
many of his to love.
FRANCES
Ain’t that the truth?
BONNIE
I look forward to meeting her
someday.
GAMMY MAC
Huh?
FRANCES
Her name is Sarah!
Robert and Victor enter.
ROBERT
I see you have met the queen bees.
You all remember my brother Victor.
FRANCES
Yes.
GAMMY MAC
Huh?
FRANCES
It’s Victor!
59.

ROBERT
(Under his breath)
Can you believe they are both still
alive? I swear the way Bonnie cares
for them they’re never gonna die.
Bonnie picks up a tray of food to serve the women.
FRANCES
It’s about time.
INT. KITCHEN LAWSON CABIN - MOMENTS LATER
Robert, Victor, and Will enter. The room is made to feed
many. There is a Hispanic woman cooking, MARIA. She is
pregnant. A Hispanic man sits at the table eating. He stands
when the men enter.
ROBERT
This here is Miguel, his wife
Maria, and where is...
A young Hispanic boy runs in. Robert scoops him up.
ROBERT (CONT’D)
There you are! This is Carlos. He’s
a chip off the old block, eh
Miguel?
CARLOS
Hola.
ROBERT
Miguel here, he is a man you can
tie to, and I don’t know what we
would do without Maria. Man can she
cook!
They all greet one another.
Robert WHISTLES in the round-up gang. They all line up.
ROBERT
Nice work out there today boys. I
called you all over to introduce
you to your new big bug and ranch
hand. This is my brother Victor and
his son Will. I expect that you
will treat them as an extension of
myself.
(MORE)
60.

And if I hear otherwise, you will
have to answer to me. Does everyone
understand?
ROUND-UP GANG
Yes, sir.
Robert walks down the line, looking each one in the eye.
ROBERT
This here is, what I like to call
the round-up gang. The finest
cowboys in all of Montana. This
here is Harland.
Victor gives him a nice hardy handshake. Will takes notice.
HARLAND goes to shake Will’s hand. Will hesitates. Robert
shakes his head to Harland.
ROBERT (CONT’D)
He’s not much for handshakes. This
is Bennett, Jasper, Asa, Henry and
his brother Harvey, Paul, Ned,
Chad, Matthew, Jamie, and Bobby.
VICTOR
Well, I have got to say. You have a
good thing going here. I look
forward to getting to know you all
better.
ROUND-UP GANG
Yes, sir.
ROBERT
Dismissed.
The round-up gang return to their chores.
VICTOR
When you sent word that you needed
help. I pictured things, well,
different.
ROBERT
I have lost some good men to the
mines and to the railroad. Others
just couldn’t cut it and I had to
let them go. You know, I don’t have
much tolerance for dead weight.
VICTOR
Yeah. I know.
ROBERT (CONT'D)
61.

ROBERT
However, my real problem is that
the ranch is teeming with more
horses than we can handle. In
account, we don’t have enough men
who can break them. They are just
running wild.
VICTOR
That’s not the worst problem to
have. I believe we can help you
with that.
RILEY
Good. Will, go on and accompany
Chad and Matthew here to the
corral. They can start showing you
how we go about domesticating these
wild horses.
MATTHEW
Sure thing boss.
CHAD
It can be fun once you get the hang
of it.
WILL
Oh?
Will, Chad, and Matthew head to the corral where there is a
bucking bronco.
MATTHEW
Will, do you want to take this one?
WILL
No, you go ahead. I’ll watch you
and take the next one.
Victor and Robert sit down on the front porch and watch on.
Bonnie brings the some refreshments.
ROBERT
Join us.
BONNIE
No. You two catch up. We’ll have
plenty of time later.
Bonnie kisses Robert. She leaves.
62.

ROBERT
I’ve been real worried about you
Vic. When I try and put myself in
your shoes and think about what I’d
do if something happened to Bonnie.
I can’t. My mind won’t even
consider it.
VICTOR
Elizabeth and I weren’t like you
two. We married for all the wrong
reasons. I loved her, yes, but
whatever connection we had was lost
long ago.
ROBERT
Do you miss her?
VICTOR
Yes, I miss her... in my own way. I
have a lot of faith now. That has
changed since you knew me and it
comforts me to know that they took
that heavenly journey together. I
believe they are okay, actually
better than okay.
ROBERT
That’s good Vic. That’s real real
good.
EXT. ROCKY MOUNTAINS - EVENING
Black Heart MOANS. Amy is awakened. Amy approaches him
cautiously. When close she grabs her canteen and CHUGS the
rest of the water.
Amy refills her canteen at the lake. She takes Savior by the
reins and leads him under the rock shelter. Amy takes a deep
breath and slides Black Heart down. He wakes and GROANS.
She props him up. He stares into her eyes. She assesses his
wounds. He has a gash on his head that is bleeding slightly
and an arrow impaled in his side.
Amy goes to her saddle bag. She takes the bow and lays it by
Black Heart. He removes his eyes from her briefly to look at
it. She returns to the bag for some supplies.
AMY
One of the Indian boys you were
with, he left that bow with me. Is
it yours?
63.

Amy begins to clean his wounds.
AMY (CONT’D)
Can you understand me? I guess not
huh? Well it shouldn’t upset you
too much for me to tell you that
those boys were killed by the
Indians you all were fighting.
Amy looks to Black Heart. He continues to stare at her.
AMY (CONT’D)
Well, for what it’s worth, I’m
sorry.
Amy begins to wash his scalp wound.
AMY (CONT’D)
It’s not too bad.
She cleans his face removing all the dried blood and war
paint. His features are chiseled and his lips full.
AMY (CONT’D)
Are you thirsty?
She gives him a sip from the canteen.
She moves on to cleaning his chest. Her motions become
slower, more fluid, and sensual. She is focusing on his
strong, hard build. She catches herself and gets flustered.
AMY (CONT’D)
Oh, I’m sorry. I’ve just never been
intimate with a man before. I mean,
I have kissed a man once, actually
he kissed me. Then he left town.
I’m hoping to see him again. I’ve
had a lot of offers too. I run a
saloon so I see a lot of men. Scum
bags really. God, I’m so glad you
can’t understand me. Well, you are
just about fixed up.
Amy stands and looks down at the arrow. He follows her stare.
AMY (CONT’D)
It looks like it is not in far
enough to push it through, so we’ll
have to pull it out.
Amy removes her boots, places a foot on his chest, and wraps
her hands around the shaft of the arrow.
64.

AMY (CONT’D)
Okay, on three. One, two, I can do
this, three.
Amy pulls. Black Heart STIFLES a SCREAM. She gives the arrow
a twist. It POPS out. The wound spews blood. Amy puts her
bandana over it.
AMY (CONT’D)
Here, put pressure on it.
Amy stands and turns her back to Black Heart.
AMY (CONT’D)
(Under her breath)
Damn it Elaine.
Amy reaches into the front of her pants and pulls out the
stocking she has been using for her “man parts.” She wraps
the stocking around his torso to hold the bandana in place.
AMY (CONT’D)
Okay there. Another great use for
that thing.
INT. KITCHEN LAWSON CABIN - NIGHT
Several of the round-up gang, the Vasquez family, and the
Lawson family gather for dinner. The table is abundant. They
are giving thanks.
ROBERT
Oh mighty God, we thank you for
your grace, for watching over
Victor and Will during their
travels, all these fine people, and
your bounty. Amen.
GROUP
Amen.
ROBERT
Now let’s dig in.
The group serve themselves.
ROBERT (CONT’D)
So Will, how did it go out there
today?
65.

WILL
I think Matt and Chad did a bang-up
job. As for me, I just got real
banged up.
The group LAUGHS.
MATTHEW
You’re all right by me Will.
CHAD
Yeah, as fine as cream and gravy.
ROBERT
Now, Will the way I see it. It’s
your time to go through the mill
and your opportunity, your golden
opportunity, to step out of Ben’s
shadow for once and for all and to
become the man you are gonna be.
WILL
I’m just not like my brother.
ROBERT
Are any of us? I thank God I’m not
like this son of bitch all the
time.
VICTOR
Thanks Robby.
ROBERT
No but seriously. We get it. You’ve
got a sensitive side. But use that
boy. That is your well. Tap into
it! Find the beauty in these wild
horses and your ability to connect
with them. You’re still a man. I
think you will be amazed at what
you can do. Okay?!
WILL
Yes, sir.
ROBERT
Okay?! Let me hear you!
GROUP
Yes sir!
LAUGHTER.
66.

BONNIE
You know Victor, the word has
already gotten around that Robert’s
available brother was coming into
town.
ROBERT
Bonnie...
BONNIE
What? It’s true. I had at least
three inquirers just last week.
ROBERT
I told her not to...
VICTOR
... It’s okay. I know Bonnie’s the
eternal matchmaker.
MATTHEW
She still hasn’t set me up yet.
ROBERT
I wonder why?
BONNIE
So Victor?
VICTOR
Thank you. But I plan on letting my
heart make those decisions on my
behalf from now on.
BONNIE
Fine. Suit yourself.
EXT. ROCKY MOUNTAINS - NIGHT
Black Heart is comfortable. Amy cooks two fish over a
campfire. She puts each of them on a plate and slides one to
Black Heart.
AMY
Dinner’s served.
Black Heart inspects the fish. Amy takes her plate and eats
away from the camp, by Savior. She hand feeds the horse.
Black Heart watches her.
Amy returns for her bedding. She noticed Black Heart has not
eaten.
67.

AMY (CONT’D)
What? You don’t like fish?
She tosses him a blanket.
AMY (CONT’D)
Here. Good night.
Amy sleeps under the stars by Savior.
EXT. SOMEWHERE IN THE ROCKIES - NIGHT
Ben is alone. He’s grown a beard and is stoking a campfire.
He sits back, reaches into his pocket and retrieves the
sketch he drew. He tears out the image of Zane and burns the
rest in the fire. It STOKES.
EXT. FOOT HILLS OF THE ROCKIES - NIGHT
Zane emerges from the woods by horseback. There is a modest
log cabin just off in the distance. He makes his way towards
it. The chimney is letting off smoke and the windows are
faintly lit.
INT. MCATEE LOG CABIN - NIGHT
Inside is a young couple. MARIDAI and DOUGLAS MCATEE. Maridai
is gentle and graceful. Douglas is jovial and is a fiery red
head. The couple are making love by a fire. They finish.
DOUGLAS
Well, Miss Maridai McAtee, for such
a delicate flower of a woman, you
sure now how to please a man.
MARIDAI
You’re not just a man. You’re my
man. And my husband now.
DOUGLAS
Say it again?
MARIDAI
What?
DOUGLAS
Husband.
MARIDAI
Husband.
68.

They kiss.
MARIDAI (CONT’D)
How many children do you suppose we
should have?
DOUGLAS
Well, if they’re like you,
hundreds. If they are anything like
their old man here, I think one is
about all we could handle.
Maridai GIGGLES. They hear a NOISE outside.
DOUGLAS (CONT’D)
It’s just the wind. I’m sure of it.
I’ll go take a look.
Douglas stands. He puts on his pants and his gun belt.
MARIDAI
Don’t go out there. I have a bad
feeling.
Douglas smiles and kisses her forehead.
DOUGLAS
I’ll be fine darling. Keep my spot
warm for me.
Douglas turns the handle of the front door. He opens it. Zane
SHOOTS him dead. Maridai SCREAMS. Zane makes his way in, and
kicks Douglas’s body outside.
Zane stands over Maridai and tips his hat to her.
ZANE
You know little lady. I had a mind
to just pass you all right on by.
But when I peered in that there
window and saw you with your man.
Well, it made me a little jealous.
Maridai begins to CRY.
ZANE (CONT’D)
Shhh, don’t do that. I’ll take my
time. I don’t plan on leaving here
anytime soon.
69.

EXT. ROCKY MOUNTAINS - DAY
Black Heart is pale, sweaty, and shaking. Amy covers him with
a blanket and her bed roll. Time passes. He looks worse. Amy
drags his semiconscious body closer to the fire.
Amy gathers firewood. She stops and notices the aspens are
turning yellow. She looks worried but returns to her task.
Days turn into nights. Nights turn into days. Amy tends to
Black Heart. Clouds move in. Amy is shivering. She
reluctantly surrenders to the situation. She slides under the
bedroll and wraps her arms around Black Heart. She stops
shivering.
EXT. ROCKY MOUNTAINS - MORNING
Black Heart’s fever has broken. He is bathing in the nude.
Amy wakes. She notices Black Heart is gone. She looks for him
and sees him bathing. She pretends to be asleep and peeks
with one eye to watch him.
Black Heart finishes. He exits the lake. Gets dressed and
walks toward Savior. He admires the horse and hand feeds him
some grass.
Amy gets up and makes her way over to them. Black Heart can’t
take his eyes off her as she approaches. Amy smiles.
BLACK HEART
Iichiile Itche (ee-chee-lay eet-
chay).
AMY
Eeechillay eetchayyy?
Black Heart is amused.
BLACK HEART
Yes, in Crow language it means good
horse.
AMY
You speak. You speak English?
BLACK HEART
The Great Spirit give animals, the
ones without fires, supernatural
powers. Man does not possess these
powers. Man need animal to obtain
powers.
70.

AMY
What?
BLACK HEART
The animals are the great revelers.
Through sacred dream, vision, or
fasting experience, animals will
come.
AMY
He saved me in the desert once.
BLACK HEART
Yes. He then prescribe the sacred
secrets of the Great Spirit. You
possess gift powers from this good
horse. You possess horse medicine.
The great power to heal.
AMY
I don’t know.
BLACK HEART
I seek not from you, I have seen,
been shown, by the Great Spirit. I
inform you. You possess great
power.
AMY
Okay? Thank you.
BLACK HEART
Don’t thank me. Thank Iichiile.
Amy is confused.
BLACK HEART (CONT’D)
Thank horse!
Black Heart walks away. Amy looks to Savior.
Robert takes Will over to a pen with a wild, wild horse.
ROBERT
Here she is boy. I swear she has
been possessed by the Devil
himself.
WILL
I don’t know about this.
71.

ROBERT
Have faith boy. Now come on.
Robert jumps the fence and grabs a rope.
ROBERT (CONT’D)
Whoa now. Shhh. It’s okay.
Robert mounts the horse. She throws him off. Robert stands.
ROBERT (CONT’D)
Come on in. She’s prime.
Will climbs in.
ROBERT (CONT’D)
So what do you feel?
WILL
Scared.
ROBERT
Okay. That’s a start. Why?
WILL
Um, cause I think I might die or
get maimed.
ROBERT
Okay. Now get past yourself. Look
at this horse. What do you feel?
WILL
That she is scared. Too.
ROBERT
All right boy. Now we’re talking.
It takes Will several attempts to mount her. He looks the
horse in the eye every time he tries. The last time he
catches his reflection in her eye. He mounts her. He tames
her. Robert opens the gate wide and lets them ride free.
ROBERT (CONT’D)
Whooo hooo! That’s it! Go boy!
The round-up gang take notice and CHEER Will on.
EXT. ROCKY MOUNTAINS - EVENING
Amy has prepared a fish dinner. Black Heart picks at it.
72.

BLACK HEART
What do I call you?
AMY
Umm, my name is Amy, Amy Vass, you
can call me Amy. What is your name?
BLACK HEART
Dasse Shipite (daw-say shee-pee-
tay)
AMY
Dasse Shipite?
BLACK HEART
Yes. It means Black Heart.
AMY
That is some name. How did you get
that name?
BLACK HEART
Crow Indian boys, aspiring
warriors, seek guidance from the
Great Spirit. As a young man I went
to the Sacred Mountains to seek. I
went many days without water or
food awaiting Baxbe.
AMY
Baxbe?
BLACK HEART
Sacred power from the Maker.
AMY
Oh.
BLACK HEART
Many days pass, pangs of hunger
died, I lay down and waited. Then I
had a clear vision from the Maker.
AMY
How did that give you your name?
BLACK HEART
When I returned home. Many could
see that I had seen. I had
admirers, women, who wanted to
marry me. I denied them all.
AMY
I know what that’s like.
73.

BLACK HEART
One by one I had to explain. I
would be unable to marry, it would
go in the face of the Great Spirit.
AMY
Why?
BLACK HEART
Because of the vision showed to me.
AMY
Oh, go on.
BLACK HEART
I explain, some understand, some
get angry and their fathers too.
They say I won’t marry, that I have
a black heart. So they name me
Black Heart.
AMY
That is fascinating. If they named
my people by their actions it would
get very interesting... Now that
you are feeling better, I plan on
setting out in the morning. I had
some people I was trying to meet up
with. Will you be okay here or did
you want to accompany me down the
mountain?
BLACK HEART
Where are your people?
AMY
I suppose they are in Montana by
now.
BLACK HEART
You are far from that land.
Black Heart looks to the sky.
A storm is coming and plans to stay
until the river flows again. It
would not be wise for you to go.
AMY
What? Are you suggesting I stay
here all winter?
74.

BLACK HEART
The bear sleeps for good reason.
AMY
A storm?
BLACK HEART
Yes, may be a good idea to head
down mountain when sun rises.
Black Heart picks up his bow and pretends to shoot.
My friends give you arrows?
AMY
No. Just the bow.
BLACK HEART
You have long barrel gun.
AMY
Yes. But no ammo.
BLACK HEART
That why fish, always fish? Fish is
poor food.
AMY
(Sarcastically))
I’d like to see you do better.
Amy tosses him her bead handled knife.
AMY (CONT’D)
That my friend, is the only weapon,
I, we have.
Black Heart sizes the knife up then sharpens it with a rock.
EXT. ASPEN FOREST ROCK MOUNTAINS - DAY
Amy is riding Savior down the mountain. Black Heart walks
alongside her. Flurries begin to fall. Amy is wearing her
hair down under her hat. Black Heart suddenly stops. He
motions to Amy to stay put.
Black Heart arms himself with the knife. He crouches and
makes his way to a clearing. He SILENTLY stalks his prey.
He approaches a sleeping buck. Launches forward. Mounts it.
The buck takes off running.
75.

Black Heart holds on, draws his knife high and pierces the
dear’s heart with one swift motion. The deer collapses. Black
Heart rolls to his feet.
Amy LAUGHS and CLAPS her hands in amazement, then joins him.
EXT. CLEARING ROCKY MOUNTAINS - DAY
Snow blankets the mountain. Black Heart and Amy stay warm by
a fire. Black Heart is donning some shoes and a coat he has
made from the deer skin. He is finishing a shawl-like garment
for Amy. Amy is feasting on some cooked deer meat.
AMY
Mmmm it’s utterly delicious. You
are right. It is better than fish.
Black Heart finishes and goes to slip the garment over her
head. She instinctively flinches back.
AMY (CONT’D)
Sorry.
Black Heart pauses. Amy sits up straight and he slips it on.
BLACK HEART
Looks good.
AMY
Thank you. Nobody has ever... well,
thank you.
Black Heart returns to work, making arrows.
AMY (CONT’D)
Can you teach me?
BLACK HEART
Yes.
MONTAGE:
Black Heart shows Amy how to fashion some arrows.
They practice shooting at a target.
Amy hones her skill.
They pack up camp.
They ride Savior together down the mountain.
76.

The scenery changes and time passes.
Black Heart reveals a hidden spot with a stashed teepee and
gear.
They erect a white, buffalo hide teepee. More snow falls.
The inside of the teepee is layered in buffalo hides, there
is a fire pit in the center.
Amy gathers fire wood. They are ready. Winter arrives.
EXT. FRONT OF TEEPEE - DAY
Amy drags a small pine tree towards the teepee. Black Heart
emerges from it. Amy looks happy. Her look is softer now.
BLACK HEART
You killed a tree?
AMY
No. Well, yes. It’s Christmas and
where I come from we celebrate.
Amy starts to drag the tree into the teepee.
BLACK HEART
I don’t understand.
AMY
Just help me and I’ll explain
later.
INT. MILES MODEST HOME - DAY
The home is decorated for Christmas. Miles is still nursing
his injured arm. His family is gathered. There is a KNOCK at
the door. Miles opens it. It’s his deputy RUFUS. Rufus barges
in with Burt and a couple of cronies in tow.
MILES
Rufus, what are you doing here? You
are supposed to be watching the
jailhouse?
RUFUS
We are here on official business.
MILES
Any business you have comes through
me first!
77.

Burt waves the cronies over to a coat rack.
BURT
Check the pockets.
One of the cronies pulls out a jeweled necklace.
BURT (CONT’D)
It seems a man with a gimp arm was
seen last night leaving my home...
Only for me to discover some of my
wife’s jewelry missing.
Miles charges Burt but is subdued by the men.
MILES
You’re a fucking liar! Rufus are
you gonna let this blowhard buy
your soul? You’re pathetic!
They escort Miles from the home.
BURT
Merry Christmas. Please return to
your festivities.
INT. SHERRIFF’S OFFICE - AFTERNOON
Miles is sitting on a bench in the jail cell. He turns his
attention to his injured arm. He removes it from its sling.
He pumps his fist and rolls his shoulder. He’s determined.
INT. BROTHEL - AFTERNOON
The place is under Burt’s ownership. It has gone way
downhill. Burt sits at the bar puffing on a pipe. Elaine
comes down the stairs dragging, a now obviously pregnant and
depressed Sarah, by the arm. They are dressed up nice.
BURT
Where do you think you’re going? We
have customers.
Burt and his friends LAUGH. Johnny is gone and there is a
sleazy bartender. Elaine stops and gets in Burt’s face.
ELAINE
You might own this dump but you
don’t own me dirt bag.
Elaine makes her exit with Sarah.
78.

INT. CHURCH - MOMENTS LATER
Elaine and Sarah are greeted by Reverend Joseph. The church
is quaint and cozy. The choir SINGS and there are many lit
candles. They find their seats.
INT. LAWSON CABIN MONTANA - EVENING
The living room is full of CONVERSATION and LAUGHTER. Will
stands at the foot of Frances and Gammy Mac’s bed. He unveils
a huge painting of the Montana mountain side. Frances GASPS.
WILL
I thought it could hang over the
fireplace here for you both to
enjoy. Seeing that you don’t get
out much and all.
Robert leans in to Victor.
ROBERT
You know I was kidding, right?
They LAUGH.
ROBERT (CONT’D)
Still no word from Ben?
VICTOR
No. I was hoping he’d be here by
now.
Victor gazes out the window.
EXT. WOODS ROCKY MOUNTAINS - EVENING
Ben is beaten up by the weather. He looks his horse over
worried. He takes the reins and leads him on. Off in the
distance a cabin appears.
INT. HOBAN CABIN - MOMENTS LATER
A family is gathered about the cabin, GEORGE HOBAN and INGE
HOBAN, with their three young boys. Inge looks strikingly
like Elizabeth Lawson, yet her demeanor is much more relaxed.
Inge looks out the window and spots Ben approaching. He
collapses.
79.

INT. HOBAN CABIN - EVENING
Ben sits with the Hoban family for dinner.
BEN
I can’t remember the last time I
had a feast as fine as this.
INGE
What is a young fellow like you
doing out here on Christmas? Do you
not have a family? What would your
mama say?
Ben looks at Inge.
BEN
I don’t know? You remind me of her.
She is passed now.
Inge reaches for his hand. It’s trembling.
BEN (CONT’D)
You know, I never knew just how
much I loved her.
INGE
It’s okay. A mother’s heart knows.
BEN
You think so?
INGE
I know so.
GEORGE
Benjamin, it’s a pleasure to have
you here with us tonight. Let’s
raise a toast. Here’s to a warm
Christmas and to a mother’s
unbounded heart.
Ben raises his glass.
BEN
Thank you. Cheers.
INT. TEEPEE - NIGHT
Amy’s tree is decorated with some handmade ornaments. There
is a fire in the fire pit. Amy and Black Heart are sharing a
bottle of whiskey and smoking a pipe. Amy is tipsy.
80.

AMY
I don’t know why I was saving this.
BLACK HEART
Life should be enjoyed.
AMY
Yes, but it is not always easy.
BLACK HEART
Why? Peace and happiness are
available in every moment.
AMY
I don’t know.
BLACK HEART
(Declares)
You are happy now.
AMY
Yes, I feel safe with you.
Black Heart moves in close.
BLACK HEART
I see you. You are brave and
strong. You are like
Biawacheeitchish.
AMY
Who?
BLACK HEART
Woman Chief. She too dressed like
man. She was great chief and great
warrior.
AMY
You think I’m like her?
BLACK HEART
Yes. She fought many battles, took
many wives, loved bravely, and died
bravely fighting for what she
believed in.
AMY
Your tribe had a woman chief?
BLACK HEART
Yes. Many. Brave women, like you.
81.

Amy swoons from the alcohol. Black Heart catches her and lays
her back. He lingers. Amy closes her eyes, tired.
Black Heart picks up a blanket to cover Amy. Her leather
journal spills out of it.
Black Heart looks at the journal and its contents. He sees
the photo of her father, the map, and the yellow feather. A
memory is triggered.
FLASHBACK:
EXT. GREAT PLAINS 15 YEARS EARLIER - DAY
Black Heart is about 4 years old. He rides with an older Crow
Indian man, MEDICINE HAND. Medicine Hand wears a war bonnet.
A white man rides towards them with a young, catatonic girl
wrapped in a blanket.
MEDICINE HAND
White Man Whiskey.
They stop in close proximity.
MEDICINE HAND (CONT’D)
You have child with you?
LEVI
It’s my daughter, Amy. She is sick.
Levi gives medicine man a couple bottles of whiskey. Medicine
Hand trades him a bead handled knife and sheath. Medicine
Hand takes a long look at Amy.
LEVI (CONT’D)
I have tried everything. She won’t
eat or talk. I thought you might
could help her.
MEDICINE HAND
Her soul is sick. It casts a long
black shadow over her pure heart.
Medicine Hand pulls one yellow feather from his war bonnet.
He closes his eyes. Holds the feather to his heart then to
the sky. He CHANTS.
Medicine Hand hands the feather to Black Heart and motions
for him to deliver it to Levi. He does. Levi goes to take the
feather, Amy’s head tips back, and Black Heart stares deep
into her lifeless expression.
82.

LEVI
Thank you.
Black Heart returns to his horse. The Indian’s ride off. Levi
tucks the yellow feather into Amy’s blanket and kisses her
forehead before riding away in the other direction.
INT. TEEPEE PRESENT TIME - NIGHT
Black Heart looks at Amy and tucks the feather into her
blanket with her.
INT. TEEPEE - MORNING
Black Heart pushes open the flap of the teepee letting in
some morning light. He see’s something. He gets excited and
wakes up Amy.
BLACK HEART
Amy! Wake up! It’s time.
AMY
What? Time for what?
BLACK HEART
Time to hunt.
MONTAGE:
Black Heart paints Amy’s face then Savior.
Amy puts her hair in two side braids.
Amy arms herself with a bow and some arrows.
Black Heart places the yellow feather into Amy’s hair.
They mount Savior. Black Heart is at the reins.
Amy rides just behind him, they move in one fluid motion.
The ground is covered in snow and there is a dense fog.
EXT. GREAT PLAINS - MOMENTS LATER
Black Heart stops. QUIET. We circle them. We see his breath.
Out of the fog, a buffalo emerges. Foggy Breath. Black Heart
kicks Savior into full gear. The buffalo runs.
83.

The fog lifts. They are riding in the middle of a herd of
buffalo. Snow falls. Time slows. Amy smiles. Stretches her
arms out. Leans her head back. Closes her eyes. SHE IS FREE.
We begin to return to real time with the sound of Amy’s HEART
BEAT and her every BREATH. The sound of Savior’s hooves
DRUMMING the Earth. Black Heart WHOOPS.
They move in on a buffalo. Amy pulls out an arrow, sets up
aim, and takes him down with one shot. They dismount. Red
blood seeps into the snow. Black Heart WHOOPS. Amy WHOOPS.
EXT. AMY AND BLACK HEART’S CAMP - DAY
Spring has arrived. Amy and Black Heart are packed up. Amy
looks at a map.
AMY
I have it all planned out. Would
you like to take a look?
BLACK HEART
No. I know my way.
AMY
Okay. Let’s go.
They begin their journey.
EXT. HOBAN CABIN - DAY
The boys are horsing around with Ben. Ben is clean shaven and
looks well cared for. George is loading Ben’s gear. Inge
watches on.
GEORGE
You’re all set here.
BEN
Thank you.
Ben shakes George’s hand. Inge hands Ben some food.
INGE
Take care of yourself.
Ben takes the food, turns to leave. He pauses, then turns
back towards Inge to give her a big hug.
BEN
Inge, thank you, for everything.
84.

Ben mounts his horse.
INGE
I hope you find what you’re
searching for.
Ben smiles and rides off.
INGE (CONT’D)
And don’t be a stranger!
EXT. SOMEWHERE IN THE ROCKIES - DAY
Zane is riding along with Maridai behind him. She is morose
with a black eye and fat lip. She is bound at the wrists.
ZANE
This looks like a good spot to
rest.
Zane dismounts and pull Maridai off the horse.
MARIDAI
Help! Please somebody help me!
ZANE
You can scream your little heart
out but ain’t nobody commin for
you.
Zane kisses her mouth and STIFLES her.
Black Heart is washing up in a creek. Amy looks towards the
trees.
AMY
I’ll get us some firewood.
Ben rides along peacefully.
Zane is asleep. Maridai is tied to a tree. With some effort
she frees herself. She runs into the woods.
85.

EXT. SOMEWHERE IN THE ROCKIES - MOMENTS LATER
Amy is gathering fire wood.
Maridai is turned around and unsure which way to run. She
decides and is off again. Zane lurches out from behind a tree
and grabs her by the hair.
ZANE
You’re gonna pay for this Bitch!
Amy hears a SCREAM. She drops her wood. Draws her knife and
runs swiftly through the trees.
Amy comes upon Zane wrestling Maridai. He has a gun to her
head. Amy pounces on Zane’s back. He FIRES the gun. Amy’s
advance deflects the bullet. The noise ECHOES in the sky.
The noise alerts both Black Heart and Ben who are in the
area. Black Heart runs through the forest at mock speed. Ben
turns his horse around and draws his gun.
Maridai has freed herself and is crawling away. Zane and Amy
are in a heated struggle. Amy is putting up a good fight. She
pulls then loses her knife. Zane gets her pinned and is about
to shoot her. He recognizes her and LAUGHS.
ZANE
Well, well, it seems to be my lucky
day... Amy.
AMY
How do you know my name?
ZANE
You don’t remember me? I’m sure you
remember Burt, Burt Meyers.
AMY
That piece of shit!
ZANE
That piece of shit is willing to
pay a pretty penny for your head on
a platter. You are a pretty little
thing.
86.

Amy spits in his face. He KNOCKS her out with is gun. Black
Heart sees this and charges Zane. The men fight. Black Heart
has the upper hand.
Ben arrives he takes aim on Zane and SHOOTS. The men roll
missing the gunfire. Zane gets his hand on Amy’s knife.
Amy wakes. Time slows. SILENCE. Amy witnesses Zane stab Black
Heart. Time and SOUND return. She crawls to his aid. Ben and
Zane fight in the background.
Amy cradles Black Heart and sees he is mortally wounded.
Black Heart looks at Amy and a sense of peace comes over him.
AMY
Oh my God. It’s okay. I can fix
this, I have healing powers...
remember?
BLACK HEART
Amy, it’s over.
AMY
Wake up! What about your vision?
BLACK HEART
You. You were my vision. It was you
who needed healing. In return my
heart now knows love.
Amy’s tears fall.
AMY
Please. Don’t go.
BLACK HEART
The soul would have no rainbow if
the eyes had no tears.
He wipes her tears. Amy kisses him. He dies.
The fight continues. Zane is about to shoot Ben. Amy kicks
the gun away. Ben retrieves it and SHOOTS Zane dead. Ben
stands over the body and spits on him.
Maridai SOBS. Ben walks to her and kneels down and offers his
hand. She shakes in fear.
AMY
Ben, you don’t think you are going
to gain her trust with that bloody
hand do you?
Ben looks down at his bloody hand.
87.

The ranch is bustling. The men are hard at work. Will is now
buff and extremely skillful. He is breaking a horse. Victor
is watching him.
Amy is riding Savior with Maridai on the back. Ben rides
alongside them. They are noticed by one of the ranch hands.
He lets out a WHISTLE.
Victor turns to see them approaching. He starts to walk over,
recognizes Ben, and then makes out Amy. Time slows. Their
eyes meet. Amy smiles.
BEN
Father.
VICTOR
What took so long?
BEN
I’m not sure. But I’m here now.
They hug.
VICTOR
I am so glad.
BEN
My god, I can’t believe my eyes. Is
that Will out there?
Victor locks eyes with Amy again.
VICTOR
Yes, go see him. He will be pleased
you have arrived.
Ben helps Maridai down first. Bonnie sees she is in need of
help and rushes over. Bonnie escorts Maridai into the house.
Ben runs over towards Will.
VICTOR (CONT’D)
Is it really you?
AMY
Yes.
INT. LAWSON MONTANA BARN - NIGHT
Amy is tending to Savior. Victor enters and watches her
unnoticed for several moments.
88.

VICTOR
I was there that night Amy.
She starts to brush Savior.
VICTOR (CONT’D)
I think you should know all of what
happened.
He starts to approach her.
VICTOR (CONT’D)
It was late. Elizabeth and I had an
argument.
FLASHBACK:
INT. BROTHEL 15 YEARS EARLIER - NIGHT
The bar is empty except for Victor, Dan, and Levi. Dan is
tending bar and has his vision. Victor and Levi are drinking
and palling around.
Upstairs a door CLOSES. Dirty cowboy #1 and dirty cowboy #2
exit the bedroom LAUGHING. They make their way to a couple of
seats at the bar.
Upstairs a suspicious Elaine enters the bedroom. Charity is
passed out. Amy lays in the bed sucking her thumb. Elaine
gets the attention of two of the whores to help her.
ELAINE
Draw her a bath. She needs to sober
up.
The two women escort Charity out of the room. Elaine looks in
the bag then over at Amy.
ELAINE (CONT’D)
My God...
Elaine heads down the stairs. She whispers in Levi’s ear. His
expression turns fierce. He looks at the two dirty cowboys.
Levi leans in and has a few words with Dan and Victor.
LEVI
Elaine, go take care of my baby.
Victor lock the door.
Victor LOCKS the door. The dirty cowboy #1 takes notice. Dan
comes over the bar to subdue him.
89.

Dirty cowboy #2 smashes a beer mug into Dan’s face. His eyes
begin to bleed. Victor and Levi fight the two dirty cowboys.
VICTOR (V.O.)
I’ve never seen a man so enraged.
EXT. SOMEWHERE IN THE DARKNESS - NIGHT
Victor and Levi are finishing digging two graves. Victor
holds up a lantern illuminating the two dirty cowboys. They
are naked, beaten, and bound by their wrists.
DIRTY COWBOY #2
Please, don’t do this.
Levi gets in his face.
LEVI
(Seething)
Is that what my baby said? You
sick, twisted, piece of shit.
DIRTY COWBOY #1
Please don’t kill us! I have a wife
and children.
LEVI
I’m not gonna kill you.
DIRTY COWBOY #1
You’re not?
LEVI
No. I’m not. I’m just gonna bury
you.
Victor looks taken back.
We see a coffin in each hole. The dirty cowboys PLEAD from
the inside of the boxes. Levi PILES the dirt on top of them.
VICTOR (V.O.)
I have never known evil... seen
evil... been evil until that dark
night. It started with those vile
men like a flicker and then it
spread through us like a wild fire.
90.

INT. BROTHEL BATHROOM - NIGHT
Elaine shuts the bathroom door leaving a wasted Charity alone
in the tub full of water. After a few moments Charity slips
under the water, it SPLASHES over the edges. She drowns.
Elaine wraps Amy in a blanket. Amy is catatonic. Elaine
cradles her. Rocks her. And SINGS her a lullaby.
INT. LAWSON MONTANA BARN PRESENT TIME - NIGHT
Amy looks at Victor. She takes his hand and holds it to her
chest.
AMY
It’s okay. It’s all behind us now.
I know who you are. And I finally,
know who I am.
They embrace.
INT. LAWSON CABIN MONTANA - MORNING
Ben serves Maridai a plate of food. He sits across from her
and begins to eat.
BEN
You need to eat.
She stares at her food.
BEN (CONT’D)
You can’t change what happened.
Maridai looks at Ben.
BEN (CONT’D)
I know the pain you are feeling. He
killed my mother and my baby
brother. He was only four.
Carlos RUNS through the kitchen. Maria, with her swaddled
newborn, follows quickly behind.
MARIDAI
How did it feel to kill him?
BEN
I don’t know, why?
91.

MARIDAI
Because that is all I thought about
when he was with me.
BEN
Honestly, I thought I would feel
more.
MARIDAI
More?
BEN
Yeah. I thought it would take some
of the pain away and I would feel
more... happy.
MARIDAI
And do you?
BEN
No. I don’t. Eat.
Maridai takes a small bite of her food.
EXT. LAWSON RANCH MONTANA - MOMENTS LATER
Carlos, Maria, and the baby exit to stroll the grounds.
Miguel joins them.
Amy and Will watch from the front porch while sipping coffee.
Amy reaches into her pocket and hands Will something. His
expression changes.
WILL
How did you get this?
AMY
No matter. I thought you should be
the one to return it to its
rightful owner.
He is holding the necklace he gave to Sarah the night they
made love. He has a memory of the moment. He is brought back
by a playful SCREAM from Carlos. Will watches the family.
AMY (CONT’D)
Will, she’s pregnant. Very pregnant
by now.
Will looks deep in thought. Amy watches him and waits.
WILL
We have to go get her.
92.

Amy smiles. Will stands up determined.
WILL (CONT’D)
Now!
AMY
That is what I was hoping you’d
say!
We focus on the hooves of many running horses. We see it’s
Will, Amy, Victor, Ben, and Robert riding at full speed.
INT. BROTHEL - DAY
Two cronies drag Sarah down the stairs. They stand her in
front of a table where Burt is sitting with another man,
ROGER. He is slimy and reeks of dirty money.
BURT
Is this the one?
ROGER
Yes. However, she wasn’t in this
condition the last time I came
through here.
BURT
Well, obviously she won’t be in
this condition forever.
ROGER
I’ll give you half of what we
discussed.
BURT
Half?!
Roger gets up to leave.
BURT (CONT’D)
Okay. Half!
They shake hands. Roger winks at Sarah before leaving.
BURT (CONT’D)
It looks like I have secured you
your first customer.
SARAH
What?!
93.

Black Heart_Michelle Petty & Vicki Gentes

Black Heart_Michelle Petty & Vicki Gentes

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