1. EXT.

DA SILVA MANSION; ESTABLISHER - MORNING

An upscale island mansion, complete with a wide drive way and glimmering
paint job and crispy cut edges.

2. INT. DA SILVA MANSION/ LIVING ROOM - CONTINUOUS

We pan round the wide living space, with mid budget decor, classy though
minimalist.

Off - the dinning area, fully decorated, helium balloons hovering above,
colorful ribbons the table top cluttered with food and snacks...a banner
hangs on the wall, that reads: Happy birthday Daddy and wellcome home.

Luna Da Silva (late 20s looking 40) a slender, exuberant with a clean cut
low cut tinted white, she rocks a kaki short and white collar short
sleeve shirt, a notepad in hand as she hassles across the living room.

LUNA
(Panicky)
Where’s the cake!
(Calls out)
Kim!, Kim!!, Kimberly!!!

KIMBERLY(O.S)
I‘m coming nau!

Kimberly Da Silva (mid 20s, younger than her age), full bodied, all round
chubby, a pretty face, Luna’s sister, she wears a sexy black dress, a
stained apron slung on over it.

She comes in with a two story cake, moving at a slow pace, careful not to
drop it.

LUNA
(Annoyed)
You said it’d be ready an hour ago.

KIMBERLY
It’s ready isn‘t it.

She drops the cake on the edge of the table.

LUNA
No, no that‘s wrong, it‘s supposed to be right
in-

She takes the Cake from Kimberly who stares at her with a frown.

LUNA(CONTI’D)
- in the middle...ehen.
She places the cake in the center of the table, she moves back with a
pleasant smile, taking in a view of the set up.

LUNA
(Smiles wide)
Perfecto!

KIMBERLY
(Mutters)
Whatever.

LUNA
Hey, today is a very special day for Dad and I
don’t want you bringing up this your bad
energy.

KIMBERLY
I have bad energy?

LUNA
see what I’m talking about?

KIMBERLY
You‘re the perfectionist here, you literally
watched the entire baking process in fear I
might mess it up, then later blame me for
bringing the cake in late.

LUNA
I just said today is a special day for Dad.

KIMBERLY
It‘s a family party, it doesn’t have to be
perfect.

Luna pulls out a ruler and a notepad from her kaki pockets, she measures
the distance between the dishes on the dinner table, jots numbers down on
her pad.

LUNA
(Writes down on her
notepad) 
What’s the essence of having an event planner
as a sibling and not letting her plan your
events.

KIMBERLY
More like dominate or take over-

The door bell blares off.

LUNA
(Out loud)
Go get it, I’m busy!
Kimberly glances at her, she’s had enough, she exhales and moves over to
the door, she looks through the spy hole, a million dollar smile spreads
across her face.

KIMBERLY
(Quivers in excitement)
Mezie, oh my God!

She shrieks as she jerks the door open.

Angle in Luna looking confused.

Mezie (early 30s) tall, lightskined, ruggedly handsome, he wears a fine

suit; a big bouquet of roses in hand; bigger smile on.

Kimberly jumps on his arms, plastering his face with kisses, he carries
her in, shuts the door with his left hand, while still holding up
Kimberly.

MEZIE
a little frisky now aren’t you.

KIMBERLY
I’ve missed you so much, I called ivam, he said
you couldn’t make it...

MEZIE
Well I’m here.

KIMBERLY
that is why I’m gonna eat you up.

She growls, they both laugh.

MARIA (O.C)
Kimberly, Mezie don’t do that in my living
room.

Kimberly imediately jumps off him.

KIMBERLY
(uneasy)
Sorry mummy.

MEZIE
Mrs Dav Silva, good morning.

He stretches out the roses, a well pedicuref hand with acrylic nails
reaches into frame to snatch it.

MARIA
These are nice; Kimberly you got yourself a
fine gentleman.

We track, following the flowers to reveal-- 

Maria Da Silva (50s younger in demeanor, sophisticated Milf kind of vibe)
a light skinned tiny waist; plenty of curves rounding out her breasts and
butt, giving her a pleasing hourglass shape, long ebon hair fall neatly
to her waist, preferring minimal make up, dark shades eye lids, with
artificially pouty red lips for impact, she’s not your typical momma.

Mezie see what salivates at her sight, can‘t help but gulping and
exhaling on impulse.

Maria looks him over as if she’s aware of the effect she has on him.

MARIA(CONT’D)
He’s literally wearing a suit.

KIMBERLY
He urgh--

MARIA
Don‘t defend your boyfriend Kim, it‘s
sickening.

She walks past them, moving over to the decorated dinner area.

LUNA
Good morning mummy, check out the table.

MARIA
it‘s beautiful...my God, your Dad is going to
love this.

Angle on Kimberly and Mezie.

KIMBERLY
Take off the Jacket.

Mezie timidly takes off the suit jacket, Kimberly untucls his shirt and
losens up the buttons, revealing his chest hair.

KIMBERLY
(Repulsed)
Why didn’t you shave.

MEZIE
I thought I was going to be in a suit.

KIMBERLY
Just keep the buttons up then.

She buttons them back up.

Kimberly takes the jacket and throws it behind the sofa.

MEZIE
(gasps in Pain)
rental-
 KIMBERLY
Now remember what we’ve rehearsed.

Mezie pulls out a ring from his pocket it falls to the ground

KIMBERLY
(frustrated)
Mezie!

MARIA
Is anything wrong.

Mezie and Kimberly instantly step on each other’s feets, covering up the
ring.

KIMBERLY; MEZIE
Nothing!

Kimberly smiles.

MARIA
(Skeptic)
Really?

MEZIE
everything is fine ma’am.

MARIA
Oh is that what you call your mother?

AN AWKWARD BEAT

MEZIE
I beg your pardon?

MARIA
(Softly)
Don‘t call me ma’am.

She turns back to Luna who seems to be babbling about something.

Mezie picks up the ring.

KIMBERLY
the main course is Ofada rice and chicken, when
everyone is down to their last crunch you stand
up , smiling, vigorous, you go down in your
knee and you propose.

MEZIE
(Recounts)
Stand, kneel, propose.

Holds out the ring, it slips again, Kimberly catches it mid air with a
stern experession.
 KIMBERLY
Mezie please don’t make me a laughing stock.

MEZIE
I’m already a laughing stock.

Kimberly tucks the ring inside his pocket.

KIMBERLY
No one‘s laughing dear.

MEZIE
Your mom hates me.

KIMBERLY
She doesn’t.

MEZIE
She does.

KIMBERLY
She hates everybody, now look cute, act cool,
speak out, above all don’t make a fool of
me...and we’re good.

A BEAT

MEZIE
Whoa that’s alot to take in.

KIMBERLY
Let’s go.

She drags him over to the dinner table.

LUNA
(Babbling)
so I told her to get me the gold rimmed glasses
and she literally messed up, why can‘t people
just keep to their assignments, I give her one
job, just one job and fucked it all up, I just
how Dad doesn’t see through my shame of design,
I spent years and years in the university, I
went for a mentorship just to be good at this,
I can‘t afford to--

MARIA
(Holds her)
Calm down, breath.

Lunar eases up, she exhales softly.

Kimberly rolls her eyes

MARIA
 Where’s Jacob?

LUNA
He-he, he’s not coming.

MARIA
Why, he’s supposed to be here as our ONlY
suitor at hand.

Her glance at Mezie felt like she was picking him up and tossing him into
the trash.

LUNA
(Uncertain)
I’ll give him a call.

MARIA
Better...so what’s on the menu?

LUNA
Come see.

She takes the lead, everyone follows behind, they gather round the table.

CUT TO

3. EXT. LAGOS CITY - DAY

A JAW DROPPING PANORAMA OF LAGOS ISLAND.

DISSOLVE TO

4. EXT. ROAD - DAY

We set on a mint SUV, zooming through the tarred estate; as our theme
song plays in background.

CUT TO

5. INT. SUV - CONTINUOUS

We get still shots of a luxury watch hanging loosely on chubby wrists.

Angle on the late 20ish driver in uniform, eyes peeled focused on the
road.

We get another shot of a black beard line, never fully revealing the face
of it‘s owner.
 RONALD(O.C)
Take the shot cut here please.

DRIVER
Ok sir...

CUT TO

6. EXT. DA SILVA MANSION - CONTINUOUS

POV, drone shot; the SUV makes a cut into the driveway, it honks.

we see the Gateman hassling over to open up the gates.

We pan up to the windows of the house, Kimberly can be seen visibly

peeping through the blinds.

7. INT. DA SILVA MANSION/ LIVING ROOM - CONTINUOUS

Kimberly backs up from the window in excitement, she runs over to Maria
and Lunar both flipping through a fashion magazine.

Angle on Mezie sitting uneasily at a far chair.

KIMBERLY
Daddy’s home.

Everyone jumps to their feet l, excited and frantic.

LUNA
Quickly, places, places--

MARIA
Oh my God.

they run left and right, making last fixes and arrangements.

CUT TO

8. EXT. DA SILVA MANSION - CONTINUOUS

The SUV pulls up In front of the house, the driver jumps down, he waves
to the Gateman in appreciation, walks over to the passenger door and
pulls it open.

A nice leather shoes steps out of the car, we trail it up to meet Ronald
Da Silva(60s, a cut above R.M.D) a shaved head,well trimmed beard, lenses
on,in Afro designer; our highly expected Dad, the head of the house; he
take in th house with a scowl.
the driver takes out two bags from the trunk and carries them ahead, into
the house.

Ronald moves towards the building at a slow pace like someone reflecting
in rather bad memories.

He pushes through th door, filling into the living room.

CUT TO

9. INT. DA SILVA MANSION/LIVING ROOM - CONTINUOUS

Absolute darkness.

RONALD
hello?

We hear low volume giggles.

RONALD
Is this supposed to be a joke?...is something
wrong with the power, I paid for th next three
years-

He pulls out his phone, the light from his led display illuminates his
face.

Ronald swipes through his contact list, grumbling.

RONALD
(Mutters)
Typical Nigeria, you pay and they’d still cut
your light, should have just gone solar or
better still had the bigger generators
installed.

The lights suddenly come up, he’s left in shock, his back to the house,
he turns to find Maria, Lunar, Mezie, Kimberly and the driver by the
table.

ALL
Surprise!!!

RONALD
(Overwhelmed)
What?

ALL
Happy birthday!!!

KIMBERLY
Happy birthday Daddy I love you!
 MEZIE
(Timid)
Happy birthday Daddy--sir, mean sir.

LUNA
(Wide smile)
Happy birthday.

DRIVER
Oga happy birthday.

He exits

Maria walks over to Ronald, embracing him.

MARIA
Wellcome home dear.

Ronald pushes her hands off.

MARIA
(Shock)
Ronald is anything wrong?

RONALD
(Vexed)
What is the meaning if all this!

A BEAT

LUNA
Dad it’s your birthday.

RONALD
(Yells)
So we throw a party celebrating the closer I
get to my grave!

MARIA
Don‘t talk like that, myself and the children
wanted to make this day special for you, the
least you can do is smile, appreciate and
bloody hell eat some cake!

RONALD
I’ll appreciate whatever that comes from you,
the day you give me a male heir!

LUNA
What?

RONALD
You heard me right, I do my job, I afford
whatever vanity you all desire and the only
 thing I ask, the only thing I’ve ever asked
for-
(Directly to Maria)
Is a son!, My own boy not some Pity party
organised by your band wagon of shrieking,
money consuming daughters.

A LONG BEAT

MEZIE
(Breaks silence)
I’m actually not your daughter sir.

Kimberly bumps him, he thinks into his shell.

MARIA
(Trying to keep it together)
So this is what it‘s all about-

RONALD
That is what it has always been about Maria!

MARIA
(Tears up)
we’d genuinely miss you Ronald, but each time
you return you bring war-
(Sob- choked)
You make me wish you could just stay away...
it’s not my fault, I’m not a God, I do not
control-

RONALD
Don‘t give me that sentimental crap!

MARIA
I have nothing else to say to you.

She runs off frame crying.

LUNA
Dad this is so unfair, I spent alot of time
putting all this together---and now mummy is
crying, why do you always do this, you‘re
hurting her, you tearing our family apart!

RONALD
Luna get out of my sight... 

She stands relunctant.

RONALD
(Yells)
Now!

Luna scurries off picture in fear.

Ronald walks over to the dinner table fuming in anger.

RONALD
(Grumbling)
One job, don’t feed me, don’t buy the house,
one job, give me children, sons, and you--you-

He roars, picks up the cake and throws it against the wall, he scatters
the table, bringing down the decor.

Angle on Mezie hiding behind a trembling Kimberly.

Ronald eases up, he turns to look at Mezie.

RONALD
You must be Kim’s boyfriend...

Mezie shakes his head in refusal.

RONALD
I thought as much.

He storms out of the living room.

KIMBERLY
(To Mezie)
Did you just deny me?

MEZIE
(Sheepish smile)
No-no--no nau
(Holds up the ring)
I’m still proposing, aren‘t I?

CUT TO

10. INT. DA SILVA MANSION/ MARIA‘S BEDROOM - CONTINUOUS

Maria comes up to the large mirror stand, tears escaping her eye lids.

Luna enters the room, we see her  reflection on the mirror, Maria
frantically wipes her tears.

LUNA
Oh mummy don’t cry.

She hurries over to her side, hugging Maria.

LUNA
It‘s not your fault.

MARIA
 It is, I should have tried harder, but after
you two, it was one miscarriage after the
other-

LUNA
Mom it’s enough, don’t torture yourself...or am
I not enough for you, no oo, say it now.

MARIA
(Smiles faintly)
You this girl-

LUNA
Choosing not to try after the miscarriages was
a decision you both took for your own health,
don‘t make him make it your fault, you don‘t
have magical powers to dictate the child God
chooses to give you-- I mean God gave you not
one, but two fabulous daughters.

MARIA
 (laughs)
fabulous indeed.

Luna hugs her.

LUNA
I couldn’t ask for a better mother.

Luna’s phone rings, she pulls it out of her kaki shorts and answers.

LUNA
(Speaking into phone)
Hello, oh Jacob.

She walks to a corner of the room.

Maria takes a chair and sits before the mirror, cleans up her tears and
starts applying new makeup.

LUNA
What, why?!, Jacob don’t do this?...
America?...but you didn’t tell me...
(Tears up)
Jacob how--

We hear an electronic beep.

LUNA
(Into phone)
Jacob, hello, hello?!

She slumps to the ground crying.

Maria hurries to her side.

 MARIA
What is it?

LUNA
Jacob is getting married tommorow.

MARIA
Is that why you’re crying?

LUNA
He’s getting married to a white woman in
America.

MARIA
Oh God no.

A BEAT

MARIA
Ok stand up, stand up.

She helps Luna to her feet, leads her over to the bed.

LUNA
Four years mummy, four years engaged.

MARIA
I don’t even know what to say-

LUNA
Why are men like this?...why!

She slumps back to the ground, crying.

CUT TO

11. INT. DA SILVA MANSION/LIVING ROOM - CONTINUOUS

Kimberly and Mezie are seated at the scattered dinner table, eating from
a single plate.

MEZIE
are parties always like this with your family.

KIMBERLY
this is only the beginning, wait till the
night’s episode.

MEZIE
what are we going to do about the proposal?

KIMBERLY
I’ll have to come up with a new plan.
 LUNA(O.S)
(Wailing)
God will purnish Jacob!!!

KIMBERLY
(Alert)
Jacob?

LUNA(O.S)
Bloody asshole!

MEZIE
It seems she just got dumped.

KIMBERLY
No, no, this isn’t happening, her bad luck will
hinder our proposal.

MEZIE
We’re not breaking up nau.

KIMBERLY
Don‘t you know it’ll be inappropriate of me to
get proposed to moments after my sister loses
her finance.

MEZIE
Oh, I get it now.

KIMBERLY
She better be crying over something else.

Kimberly frantically runs off picture.

Mezie looks round, he picks up a piece of chicken from th r floor, dusts

it, blows on it and drops it on his plate, starts to eat.

FADE TO

THE NIGHT SKY, FULL MOON, ZOOM OUT-

12. INT. DA SILVA MANSION/ MASTER’S BEDROOM - NIGHT

We hear car honks in the distance, as we zoom out from the full moon and
it’s shroud of darkness, revealing we were looking up through the open
windows of the Master‘s bed space.

Prestine as it‘s name implies.

Maria sits on the double king sized bed, draped in a silky night dress,
taping her phone screen.

We hear a toilet flush.

Ronald steps out of the bathroom, a white towel round his waist.

RONALD
what are you doing here?

MARIA
I don’t understand, this is our bedroom, where
we both sleep.

RONALD
Last I recall this is my house.

MARIA
Equally mine too

RONALD
I do not wish to share the bed with you
tonight.

MARIA
Then go sleep on the couch.

She puts her phone on the night stand, wraps herself in duvet, her back
turned to Ronald.

Ronald slips into pajamas.

RONALD
you probably think this is funny...

He picks up a pillow, starts towards the door.

Maria sits up.

MARIA
Ronald Da Silva.

Ronald halts.

MARIA
when did we hit this low, why are you like
this.

RONALD
I’m getting older my dear, there are so many
things I wish I did and many I wish I could
take back, this marriage is one of my biggest
regrets.

A BEAT

Maria is pained.

MARIA
 why, what are you not contented with, you have
children that love you, a wife, ME, I love you,
and I pray for you every single day-

RONALD
(Cuts in)
Maybe you should have been praying for a better
womb instead.

MARIA
(Yells)
I am not a barren woman!

RONALD
(Yells)
You‘re barren if you can’t put forth a son!

Maria stands, all day his face.

MARIA
When did it even matter, twenty years ago, you
said Luna and Kimberly were the best gifts God
has ever given to you, you said you loved them,
you said you‘d do anything to make us happy,
when your friends and family pressured you to
go get another wife, you stood by me and said
you’ll never!

RONALD
I said alot of things!, that was years ago,
twenty years ago I was never Ronald Da Silva, I
was a mechanic with nothing but dreams, now I’m
somebody, I own a multimillion naira company,
with no heir, no child willing to take up the
family business and I’m not going to sit back
and watch my company fall into the hands of
greedy gold digging suitors or members of the
board!, Over my dead body!
(A beat)
Can’t you see, I’m doing this for our own
good. 

MARIA
Don‘t shuga coat it, it‘s all about your
legacy.

RONALD
Yes, I accept it‘s my legacy, and I want it in
the trusted hands of my very own male blood.

MARIA
to what expense, my happiness?, the peace and
unity of this family dwindles because you hate
your life!
 RONALD
(Yells)
I hate you!...I hate the fact that you‘re not
trying, it‘s like you don’t understand what I’m
fighting for or you‘re heartless enough not to
care...
Maria I’ll give you the world, all I need is a
son...but you deprive me of that joy...so I’ll
torture you, I’ll torment you till you realize
the problem your refusal to get pregnant again
all these years has out us.

MARIA
It is not a problem-

RONALD
It is-

MARIA
It is not, it is your problem and if you wish
to fight me over a decision we both took.

RONALD
You took

MARIA
We made the decision -
(Yells)
Together!...

RONALD
Don’t you dare robe me into your infertility.

MARIA
for the last time, I was never barren.

RONALD
(Yells)
Then where are my sons, are they hiding under
the bed.

He checks under the bed.

RONALD (CONTI’D)
Behind the mirror?

He walks over to the mirror hanging on the wall and pushes it to the
ground.

MARIA
Stop it!

RONALD (CONTI’D)
Maybe In the wardrobe then.
He opens up the wardrobe, grabs Maria‘s dresses and throws them on the
bed.

Maria grabs hold of his arm.

MARIA
I said stop!

He pushes her back, retrieving his hand violently.

A BEAT

RONALD
You failed our marriage Maria, it’s just sad
that it took me twenty years to realize.

A BEAT

MARIA
What is sad is a sixty years old man having a
mental crises yet he doesn’t realize it.
(A beat)
Now go sleep on the couch.

Ronald walks out of the room, he slams the door.

Maria sits back on the bed, she shudders, tears streak down her cheeks,
she wipes them up.

MARIA
It wasn’t my fault--it wasn’t.

FADE TO BLACK

FADE IN

13.INT. DA SILVA MANSION/DINING ROOM - MORNING

Breakfast is set on the dining table, Luna and Kimberly are present
eating.

Maria comes in, exhausted, her eyes swollen.

She helps herself to sleep tea and bread.

LUNA
Good morning Mom.

KIMBERLY
Good morning.
 MARIA
Good morning darlings; Luna how are you?

LUNA
(Frail)
I’m fine I guess

MARIA
it’s not the end of the world.

The driver walks into frame carrying a briefcase.

DRIVER
Good morning madam.

MARIA
Aliyu how are you.

DRIVER
Very fine madam.

He hassles off, Ronald walks into frame, in a nice senator outfit.

LUNA AND KIMBERLY

Good morning Dad.

RONALD
Ah, my girls, how are you doing?

KIMBERLY
We’re fine.

RONALD
yes about yesterday, I want to apologise to the
both of you, it was wrong the way I reacted,
you really put alot of effort to make me
something special and I failed to appreciate
it,for that I’m sorry...to make up for my sins,
I’ve chosen to get the both of you brand new
cars.

KIMBERLY
(Excited)
You don’t mean it.

RONALD
I said and it‘s done, go get dressed, we’ll
take a detour on my way to the office, let’s
see my dealer , so you can make your pick.

KIMBERLY
Thanks  you so much!

She jumps up and hugs Ronald.

 RONALD
Ok, go get dressed.

KIMBERLY
Just give me an hour.

She runs off.

RONALD
Taka all the time you need.

He smiles sheepishly at Maria, who ignores him sipping tea.

RONALD
(To Luna)
Luna, what‘s wrong?, I’m taking you girls out.

LUNA
Thank you Daddy, let the driver bring mine
over.

RONALD
you expect me to choose a car for you?, No, go
get dressed.

LUNA
(Exhales)
Ok.

She stands and walks off picture.

RONALD
What is wrong with, I expected her to be high
spirited, since she‘s the one that has always
wanted her own car.

MARIA
Maybe she‘s like that because she has a father
that spends too much time hating and regretting
his matrimonial life than actually listening to
his children.

A BEAT

RONALD
I’ll pretend I didn’t hear that.
(Announces)
Luna!, Kimberly!!, Meet me in the car!!!.

He walks out, 

Angle on Maria she tries to eat a piece of bread ,but dumps it out of
frustration.
 CUT TO

14. INT. DA SILVA MANSION - LATER

The sound of the door bell engulfs the room, Maria hassles into frame ,
she jerks the door open letting in Gertrude, her sister in-law.

Gertrude (60s looking 20) your typical “I was once fat now slender due to
tons of expensive surgery” kind of lady, she rocks designer and bright
make up.

MARIA
Gertty baby!

Hugs her, both smiling.

Maria and Gertrude make their way back in to the living room, settling on
the couch.

MARIA
Look at you, those organics and dermatologists
got you shining.

GERTRUDE
My sister it hasn’t been easy, maintaining this
Manhattan skin in Lagos, AHH!; no be small.

MARIA
you have the funds to do it, you literally have
this island at your finger tips.

GERTRUDE
(Laughs)
Don‘t hype me biko...

MARIA
Where are my manners, let me get you something
to drink.

Maria walks over to the mini bar, she pours out two glasses of wine.

GERTRUDE
what exactly is the matter, you sounded
distressed over the phone.

MARIA
My sister where do I start.

Hands her a glass of wine as she sits next to her.

GERTRUDE
Is it Ronald?
 MARIA
Is it ever not Ronald.

GERTRUDE
my brother is indeed a handful... what’s funny
is that fact that you’ve both been in this
matrimonial turmoil for how long forty years?

MARIA
Gertty?
(Puffs)
Just thirty please, I had a awesome life as a
single woman.

GERTRUDE
You know it‘s not my marriage nau, you don’t
expect me to know accurate dates.

MARIA
Anyways, he’s hates the marriage.

GERTRUDE
What?

MARIA
He says he regrets marrying me, cause I
couldn’t give him a son.

GERTRUDE
I thought he said it was ok to have just two
daughters.

MARIA
Now it‘s all my fault and he fears he might
have to pass his company down to suitors or who
ever the baord deems fit.

GERTRUDE
What about your girls.

MARIA
Luna is an event designer, Kimberly is
basically unserious with life, there’s no one
else.

GERTRUDE
Ha-

MARIA
He’s guilt tripping me.

GERTRUDE
but you guys have been through alot together
for this type of nonsense, I need to talk to
him, he should focus on investing in Luna and
 Kimberly then out aside those ancient Male
child rubbish.

MARIA
I don’t know if he wants me to magically get
pregnant or give him a free pass to get another
wife; or is it divorce?, I don’t know which he
wants but I sure on he’s gunning at something.

GERTRUDE
Calm down dear, don’t make up scenerios in your
head, I’ll talk to him and find out what he
really wants.

MARIA
What if he doesn’t want the marriage anymore?

GERTRUDE
Maria calm down nau, don’t give yourself high
blood pressure because of small issue, be
honest with yourself this marriage is long
overdue, some things that were there ten years
ago are old and faded.

MARIA
I can‘t say you’re wrong, but I don’t entertain
the idea of being divorced, I still love my
marriage, I still love Ronald.

GERTRUDE
Then be calm and handle this like a smart woman
that you are.

Maria smirks.

Gertrude gulps up her wine, she scratches her neck, looks round a little
frantic.

MARIA
Are you ok?

GERTRUDE
(Relunctant)
Do you have something to eat?

MARIA
Oh, you‘re hungry?

GERTRUDE
Not exactly, I mean I just got off a date at
this top restaurant with a politician boyfriend
if mine, so; I just need something to urm---
(Searching for word)
Urm

MARIA
 Nibble?

GERTRUDE
Yes nibble, yes that’s the word.

MARIA
Gertty, Gertty, you and your rich politician
boyfriends; tell me is he older this time.

GERTRUDE
What is that supposed to mean that I follow
underage?

Maria stands, picks up both glasses, headed to the kitchen.

MARIA
well you’ve proven countless times, that you‘re
broader than Broadway.

She exits.

GERTRUDE
I think is should be offended.

MARIA(O.S)
Would you like rice?!

GERTRUDE
Whatever you have darling, take your time.

She frantically looks round, she stands, moving round the living room
checking every shelf, couch and furniture.

She stands frustrated, he remind working, her eyes suddenly set on an arm
chair at the far end of the living room, she walks over to the chair, she
finds a purse, she smiles in excitement, she opens it up, brings out
several rolls of cash, she tucks money in her bra, it doesn’t fit, she
struggles to force th cahs into her bra, she turns her back to us.

Angle on Maria as she returns to the living room, will h a trya of rice,
stew and chicken, she drops the tray of a stool next to th couch, she tip
toes towards Gertrude who is unaware of her return.

MARIA
Gertty?

Gertrude suddenly freezes, she turns slowly, cash falling off her chest,
she smiles sheepishly.

MARIA
you‘re doing this again?

GERTRUDE
Maria it‘s not what you think.

MARIA
Oh so my money seems to have a breast fetish
that it magical jumped in between your bra...
C’mon Gertrude, you‘re over forty and still
stealing?

GERTRUDE
(Confused agony)
I’m so sorry, you wouldn’t understand.

MARIA
I thought you said you now worked at a medical
firm, you always talk about your rich
politician boyfriends, why do you still need to
steal?

GERTRUDE
but you know nau, no be lekki you dey stay
again, it‘s lifestyle.

MARIA
No, it‘s fake, you’re fake and full of
lies...did you even come over because I called
or you just came here to rob me.

GERTRUDE
(Acting offended)
Hey, don’t call me names, because of small
money I want to borrow from your purse you‘re
insulting me, do you know how hard it is to be
from the Da Silva house hold and not have cash
in hand.

MARIA
Get a job.

MARIA
I’m Da Silva, I can‘t be playing second class,
I have a reputation, you know... It‘s just so
sad that you and Ronald spend more time arguing
matrimonial shenanigans that really don’t make
sense instead of spending your money, Da Silva
money and people like me.
(Shrugs)
The people that really need it.

MARIA
(Surprised)
here I am seeking advice from a divorced club
addict.

GERTRUDE
(Yells)
I’m not addicted, clubbing is a hobby!

MARIA
 Gertrude I think you should leave.

GERTRUDE
Maria, my in-law you‘re chasing me out of your
house, because of money.

MARIA
It‘s very obvious that you steal out there too,
it would be a pity for a Day Silva to be caught
and branded a cheap thief.

GERTRUDE
It‘s like you’ve forgotten I’m your husband’s
sister.
(She chuckles)
Maria for this insult, we shall see, we shall
see.

MARIA
Urgh, I’ve had enough, use the door.

She walks away.

GERTRUDE
(Yells)
Yeas go, go!!!, Selfish woman like you, you
have money but can‘t just help somebody, go!!,
you’ll tell me if your wealth would buy you a
seat in heaven, nonesense.

She continues to tuck the money into her bra, she frantically picks up
the cash that had fell, rushes over to the stool, picks out the chicken,
she eats it as she hurries out of the house.

CUT TO

15. INT. DA SILVA MANSION - EVENING

Maria sits watching TV, she laughs to the jokes from an actor on screen.

Luna comes to sit next to her, all dressed in a skimpy shiny outfit.

MARIA
Luna are you going out?

LUNA
Nonye is taking me out.

Maria bursts into laughter.

LUNA
What’s funny?
 MARIA
you should consider going out with Kimberly,
she’s a born party animal, but Nonye, Nonye of
all people my deeper life lawyer.

LUNA
She‘s not deeperlife nau.

MARIA
Are you sure you’re not going to meet pastors?

LUNA
Pastors at a club, mummy.

MARIA
She might just be using that as a front to get
you to come.

LUNA
Well I don’t mind who we meet as long as I’m
outside.

MARIA
Yeah you need to get some fun in you, Jacob is
a bastard.

LUNA
a pig!

The door slides open, Nonye (early 30s) slender, bulging eyes and teeth,
fitted nicely in a dinner gown, a purse slung on her shoulder.

NONYE
Who’s ready to party!

LUNA
(Shrieks in excitement)
Nonye!

Both girls hug each other, shrieking and dancing silly.

NONYE
Let‘s get this show on the road.

LUNA
Wait let me get my bag.

Luna rushes off to grab her bag.

Maria walks over to Nonye by the door, she runs her hand through the rims
of Nonye’s dress.

MARIA
This is good fabric, I’m impressed.
 NONYE
Thank you ma.

MARIA
how are things at the law firm?

NONYE
all is well.

MARIA
What about the land documents it told your boss
to file through.

NONYE
He off seat on medication but by Monday, I’m
sure he’ll give you a feedback.

Luna runs back into picture, she pecks Maria and drags Nonye out with
her.

MARIA 
See you by Monday!

NONYE (O.C)
Ok ma.

She pushes the door back shut, it shuts against Ronald‘s feet, who seems
to be coming in at same time.

Maria pulls the door back.

MARIA
Oh Ronald, wellcome home.

RONALD
I just saw Nonye, your personal lawyer.

MARIA
Junior lawyer.

RONALD
whatever you say, well she‘s going out with
Luna.

MARIA
I think it‘s the new car.

RONALD
really?

MARIA
Or the fact that they‘re both single and young.

She takes his briefcase from his hand, as he steps inside anshut the
door.
 MARIA
Don‘t make much of it, I mean we did have our
times.

RONALD
Yeah the good old days.

Maria places the briefcase by the chair, Ronald wraps his hands around
her from behind, she seems to relish in this.

RONALD(CONT’D)
when life made sense.

MARIA
(Smirks)
Because you had no worries and expectations...

Ronald kisses her cheeks.

MARIA
You seem...calm, not your usual self.

RONALD
I’m my usual self.

She turns round to face him.

MARIA
Gertrude came over today.

Ronald suddenly has a sour experession.

RONALD
I thought she wasn’t allowed in here.

MARIA
I-i- asked her to come, she ended up taking my
money, I just can‘t imagine why she ah refused
to change.

Ronald pulls away from her, he picks up his briefcase.

RONALD
(Angry)
That‘s what you feel for letting theives come
under your roof.

MARIA
I-

RONALD
(Cuts in)
You have nothing to say to me, it‘s obvious you
called her here to gossip me how bad and unfair
I am, well you got what you paid for,
 enjoy...mind you, if I ever lay my eyes on that
criminal z I’ll have her arrested!

He storms off.

MARIA
But she‘s your sister...ah.

She slumps down on a chair, exhausted.

DISSOLVE TO

16. EXT. DA SILVA MANSION - EARLY MORNING

Drone shot of the prestine establishment, the house keeper, a fat, grump
of a lady hard at work in the yard.

The Gateman opens the gate, a brand new Benz drives into the parking
area.

Luna steps out.

GATEMAN
Small madam good morning o.

LUNA 
Aliyu how are you?

GATEMAN
I’m fine.

LUNA
Take care of yourself ok.

She hassles across the yard, enters the house.

DISSOLVE TO

17. INT . DA SILVA MANSION /MASTER’S BEDROOM - CONTINUOUS

Maria and Ronald are engaged in a heated argument, he throws her

belongings out of the room.

RONALD
(Yells)
Leave my house, leave!!!

MARIA
I am not leaving, Ronald Da Silva if there’s
anything you truly desire be brave enough to
 say it to my face and stop making up issues
like a coward!

RONALD
So I’m a coward?! Ehen, I’ll show you what a
coward can do.

MARIA
Don‘t push me Ronald, don’t make me do what I
might just regret.

RONALD
Do it!, Do it, show the whole world the barren
wicked witch that you are!

CUT TO

18. INT. DA SILVA‘S MANSION/LIVING ROOM - SAME TIME

Kimberly has earpieces plugged on, she bops to music as we hear Maria and
Ronald’s argument in voice over.

Luna pushes into the house, she‘s in shock,she taps Kimberly to remove
the earpiece.

KIMBERLY
What is it?

Luna gestures to the angry voices of their parents.

KIMBERLY
Is that mom and Dad?

LUNA
No it‘s your uncle.

KIMBERLY
I thought they were cool.

The door bell blares off.

LUNA
Go get the door, I’m going to see what’s going
on with them.

She runs off frame, Kimberly answers the door.

Gertrude walks in, in a ruffled oversized gown.

GERTRUDE
Ah, Kimberly is your father in?

KIMBERLY
 If I do remember correctly my Dad told you
never to visit after you stole his Rolex. .

GERTRUDE
(Sheepish smile)
Took, it‘s took I took the watch, you know
stealing is a very heavy word.

KIMBERLY
Whatever, on a normal day my Dad wouldn’t
wellcome you and I know for sure he’s not going
to want to see your face today.

GERTRUDE
Wetin I do sef.

KIMBERLY
Can‘t you hear?

We hear a loud gladdens shatter.

Kimberly and Gertrude run in direction of the sound.

GERTRUDE
Ah! Let them not murder someone o.

CUT TO

19. INT. DA SILVA MANSION/ HALLWAY - CONTINUOUS

Ronald bolts the Master’s bedroom door, he slips the key into his
pockets.

We see pieces of clothing and Maria shattered vanity mirror on the

ground.

Luna standing in between them.

MARIA
He has no right to deny me access to the
Master’s bedroom.

RONALD
I own this building, I bought it and I can
dictate what ever goes.

LUNA
(Yells)
Mom, Dad stop it!

A BEAT

Everyone goes quiet.

 LUNA
You’re acting like children.

Kimberly and Gertrude run into the hallway.

GERTRUDE
Who died, who is bleeding, who did they break
his or her head?

All eyes turn to her.

AN AWKWARD BEAT

MARIA
Gertty, what happened to you?

RONALD
And what are you doing here?

LUNA
Dad I’m sure there’s a perfect explanation for
what aunty Gertrude is doing-

GERTRUDE
(Cuts in)
Luna don’t stand up for me.

LUNA
I wasn’t.

GERTRUDE
Then don’t sit either...
(She kneels)
I’m here to apologise for all the wrongs I have
ever worked you and your family Ronald I’m
sorry.

RONALD
I don’t care for your apologise, you are
wreckless, unserious, promiscuous and
unreliable by default.
(Leans close to her)
I’ll be a fool to ever trust you Gertrude,
sorry that you’re my sister but no, apology not
wellcomed, now get out of my house.

LUNA AND KIMBERLY

Dad!

RONALD
I’ve said my piece.

He storms out.

MARIA
 (To Gertrude)
You better leave this instant.

Maria starts for the exit, Gertrude grabs her legs.

Luna and Kimberly pick up Maria‘s clothing arranging them into a pile.

GERTRUDE
Please talk to your husband, I just need small
assistance, there’s no one I can go to.

MARIA
So you came for money as usual.

GERTRUDE
I gambled with some really bad people, they‘re
looking for me, I’m in so much debt, I need
money Maria.

MARIA
Well I need money too.

GERTRUDE
Please, talk to Ronald, it‘s just four million
naira.

MARIA
Oh my God Gertty, you‘re unbelievable, what
kind of gamble is that?, are you mad?

GERTRUDE
(Starts crying)
I wasn‘t thinking, I was going to win a jackpot
of sixty million and finally settle down...o
was this close.

MARIA
If you made a hundred million today, Gertty
you’d squander it, you just can‘t help it.

GERTRUDE
I need you people to help me please.

LUNA
Mom, please think about what aunty Gertrude is
saying.

A BEAT

Maria looks at Gertrude’s pity eyes.

CUT TO
20. INT. DA SILVA MANSION /LIVING ROOM - LATER

Ronald, Maria and Gertrude are settled on the couch.

Ronald signs a cheque, stretches it over to Gertrude.

RONALD
This is five million naira, take it, pay up all
your debts and start up something for yourself,
I don’t care if you hawk ice cream in the
trenches of Ajegunle, just get your life
together.

GERTRUDE
Thank you, Ronald thank you so much.

Maria brings out her own cheque and scribbles down details, she signs.

MARIA
(Clears her throat)
Here this is seven million naira, take good
care of yourself.

GERTRUDE
Oh my goodness.

She jumps to her feet, hugs Maria all excited.

GERTRUDE
Thank you, thank you so much, God will bless
you for me.

A BEAT

MARIA
If you need any help figuring out what business
you’d like to invest in justet me know.

GERTRUDE
No problem, this is why I love you so much.

Angle on Ronald uneasy, fuming.

RONALD
What is the meaning of this?

MARIA
I beg your pardon?

RONALD
I give my sister five million you give her
seven?, What are you trying to prove?

Gertrude hides the cheque inside her bra, a little confused.

 MARIA
I just wanted to help your sister.

RONALD
Oh, because my family happens to be poor and in
need of your seven million naira help.

MARIA
What exactly are you saying Ronald, you want me
to take the money back?

GERTRUDE
No o, don’t take the money back o, I can
manage.

Ronald tears another piece of cheque, writes and signs.

RONALD
This is ten million naira, go squander.

Gertrude immediately snatches the cheque.

MARIA
Ronald all these years I’ve never seen you this
vulnerable, you‘re petty and way too old for
the way you‘re acting.

RONALD
(Stands)
It has always been you mission to up stage me,
you always want to be the one in the right, you
give my sister more so she might like you
better, you accommodate her behind my back to
keep a good face while you were actually the
one who raised the motion to restrict her from
coming here in the first place.

MARIA
(Stands; in his face)
Don’t you dare call me an hypocrite.

RONALD
I don’t blame you, it‘s my useless sister that
I blame, if she had just worked hard at
anything in her life she’d be a better person
now.

Angle on Gertrude tucking the cheque inside her bra.

GERTRUDE
please I’m right here.

RONALD AND MARIA

(To Gertrude)
Shut up!
A BEAT

RONALD
this battle you’re fighting.
(Chuckles)
It‘s either I surrender or you surrender.

MARIA
Ronald you cannot intimidate me-i know my right
as a wife and mother.

RONALD
it is that right that will take you out of my
house.

He walks away.

Maria throws a tantrum.

GERTRUDE
(Timid)
Erm, which business do you suggest?

MARIA
I’m not in the mood for that, Gertty.

She exits as well.

Gertrude brings out the three cheque slips with a bright smile.

GERTRUDE
(Sings)
Jesus surprise e mo nu, with many many
blessings, he surprise e mon nu with many many
blessings....
(Laughs)
Chisos!

CUT TO

A WIDE SHOT OF THE LAGOS EXPRESS WAY,CARS ZOOMING ACRISS THE SCREEN.

21. INT. KIMBERLY‘S CAR - DAY

Kimberly drives, on the seat next to her we find Mezie, typing furiously
on his phone.

KIMBERLY
(Smiles)
How do you like my new ride?

MEZIE
 (Uninterested)
Nice , your Dad outdid himself this time.

KIMBERLY
Perks of Mom and Dad being at each other’s
necks.

MEZIE
You mean he bought you a car because he’s
quarreling with your mom?

KIMBERLY
Dad doesn’t want to look like the villain so
he’ll keep buying us expensive things till this
whole misunderstanding blows over.

MEZIE
Nawa o.

He returns to his phone.

KIMBERLY
What are you doing?

MEZIE
I’m typing.

KIMBERLY
Typing what?

MEZIE
Oh, I’m doing some jobs online, I Write
commercially, I need the extra cash to get a
good place in the island.

KIMBERLY
Wait you‘re leaving Bruce’s place?

MEZIE
Babe I’m a grown man, soon to marry, I can‘t be
squatting under Bruce’s roof, it doesn’t have a
good look.

KIMBERLY
Well then you could have said something
earlier, I’d have told my Dad, he might be able
to fix you up with-

MEZIE
(Cuts in) 
I do not want a house from your father.

KIMBERLY
but it’ll be better than what ever your little
writing money can afford.
 MEZIE
He’s already buying you expensive cars and
clothes, I’m not going to let my marriage, our
life be dependent on him too.

KIMBERLY
I feel like you’ve had this all thought out.

MEZIE
I don’t know, it‘s just how I feel.

KIMBERLY
Mezie then you better be planning on buying or
renting a mansion, because as you see me I’m
not going to live in some borough.

MEZIE
Oh but you enjoyed coming to have sex with me
under my friend‘s roof.

KIMBERLY
Bruce’s lives in a mansion.

MEZIE
Insult me, insult me, maybe you should be
dating Bruce then.

KIMBERLY
If I remember correctly, I came because of
Bruce and you somewhat manipulated your way in.

MEZIE
What tha-

Kimberly steps on the breaks, the car let’s out a loud screeching sound
as it comes to a stop.

MEZIE
Are you crazy, so you want to get us killed?!

KIMBERLY
No, wait look, across the street.

Mezie leans in, both staring out the window.

From their POV we see Gertrude overdressed in designer being dragged out
of Casino lounge by some men.

MEZIE
Who’s that?

KIMBERLY
My aunt.
 CUT TO

22. EXT. ROADSIDE - CONTINUOUS

We’re outside the casino lounge, we can see Kimberly’s car parked across
the street.

Three hefty men drag Gertrude out into the street.

HEFTY#1
we’re going to call police for you madam, that
money you must pay.

GERTRUDE
Na central bank I be?, I no try?

HEFTY#2
Madam calm down when you reach station you can
explain to them there.

The first guy pulls out his phone and starts dialling, Gertrude becomes
uneasy, she paces, returns to the second man.

GERTRUDE
Bros abeg, reason with me nau, this country
economy is hard, things are not easy for
debtors like us o.

HEFTY#2
Ehen, you this lady you’re not ashamed if
yourself, you’re supposed to be in your
husband’s house, but you’re here buying drinks
you can‘t afford, betting with millionaires yet
to own nothing...I wonder where you get the
funds for this rubbish you do, I just hope
you‘re not a thief.

HEFTY#1
(Into phone)
Hello sir-

Gertrude suddenly takes to her heels, the men pursue, she sprints across
the road.

Close on Kimberly’s car, Kimberly throws the passenger door open, she
leans out the window.

KIMBERLY
(Calls out)
Aunty!, aunty!!, Get in!!!
Gertrude dives into the backseat, shutting the door, Kimberly starts her
engine and drives off.

The men stop catching their breath, the second man brings out his phone
and takes a photo of the car’s plate number.

HEFTY#2
No worry the police will find her.

CUT TO

23. INT. DA SILVA MANSION/ LIVING ROOM- DAY

Kimberly, Mezie and Gertrude rush into the living room panting.

GERTRUDE
Shut the door.

Kimberly shuts it.

Gertrude lets out a victorious laughter, she grabs Kimberly shaking and
kissing her cheeks.

GERTRUDE
My little guardian angel, I love you so so
much, don’t worry Aunty will get you something
special.

Maria and Luna walk into frame.

MARIA
you‘re in some mood?

GERTRUDE
Your daughter just saved my life.

LUNA
Kim saved your life, ha, this one is strong o.

KIMBERLY
What is that supposed to mean.

MARIA
It‘s unusual that‘s all.

Mezie walks over to the window he peers out through the blinds.

MEZIE
(Panicky)
The police are here!

The entire room foes berserk.

 MARIA
Police?, why?

Gertrude runs behind Maria.

GERTRUDE
Quick tell them you don’t know me hide me, hide
me please.

MARIA
I can‘t aid you if I don’t know what you did.

Mezie stands hiding behind Kimberly.

KIMBERLY
Yes aunty why exactly were those men harassing
you out there.

GERTRUDE
Urm, urm.

LUNA
Aunty what did you do this time.

MARIA
Come on speak up-

GERTRUDE
I owe them a little money.

MARIA
So pay up then.

GERTRUDE
That‘s the thing I can‘t, I don’t have any
money.

MARIA
(As if recounting)
I’m not sure I heard you correctly, you mean
five, seven, ten; you mean you’ve spent twenty
two million naira?

GERTRUDE
Maria calm down, we are in Lagos for Christ’s
sake, dollar is higher now, try to understand.

MARIA
Understand what exactly, Ronald was right about
you after all.

Loud knocks are head on the door.

GERTRUDE
(Panics)
 It’s them, I have to hide.

She ducks behind the couch.

MEZIE
What if they arrest us for aiding and abetting
a criminal.

MARIA
Kimberly fo upstairs.
(To Mezie)
Get a grip of yourself, jeez.

Kimberly and Mezie hurry out of the living room.

LUNA
Mom what do we do?

MARIA
I don’t know, just let them in.

LUNA
Are we hiding Aunty?

RONALD(O.C)
Not in a million years...

He walks into clear view.

GERTRUDE
(Stands up)
Roro, you want police to arrest me your sister.

RONALD
You heard me right, I’ve always been expecting
this day, so that you’ll go behind bars and
finally learn that there’s a purnishment for
stealing and a loose lifestyle.
(To Luna)
Open that door!

Gertrude goes on her knees crying and begging.

GERTRUDE
Roro please,  please, after all we’ve been
through, Shai, you’re my brother o, my very own
blood, don’t sell me out like this.

Luna opens the door, the Police officers come in, alongside one of the
hefty men we saw earlier.

RONALD
Officers we’ll be, I believe she’s the one
you’re looking for?

HEFTY MAN
 (Pointedly)
Yes she‘s the one.

GERTRUDE
My own brother betray me.

The officers cuddle her hand and drag her out.

GERTRUDE
(Yells)
My own brother betray me!

They exit.

One last officer apparently the leader of the squad.

OFFICER
(To RONALD)
thank you so much for your cooperation, there
should be more citizens like you, thanks you
sir.

RONALD
You’re welcome officer.

The officer exits, Luna shuts the door, everyone stands speechless.

LUNA
Did we just give aunty to the police?

RONALD
She‘s a criminal, she needs some time behind
bars for correction.

He  walks away.

LUNA
Mom?

MARIA
I think we can both agree that your father is
right, as uncomfortable as it seems, Gertrude
wasn’t doing herself any good.

She exits too.

Luna stands in thought.

LUNA
Ha...

CUT TO