Fic: The Nursery Mystery (2/3)
Dec. 24th, 2017 08:46 am![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
bigtitchTitle: The Nursery Mystery (2/3)
Author:![[livejournal.com profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/external/lj-userinfo.gif)
bigtitch
Word Count: lots
Rating: PG 13
Characters/Pairing: Lester/Lyle, OCs
Author notes: Secret Santa forfredbassett, she wanted a ghost story for Xmas. Lester and Lyle decided to oblige. Mega thanks to fififolle for going above and beyond the call of duty with the betaing.
Lester and Lyle spend the Xmas break with one of Lester's old friends in her country house. However, the old secrets the house contains are going to come to light this Xmas.
SC32.
INT. NURSERY - DAY - DAY3
It is daylight. LYLE, fully dressed, enters the nursery. He goes straight to the mantelpiece and picks up the photo. It is as it was when they first found it - the boy is staring at his sister not out of the picture. LYLE puts it back. On his way out the room he tries the light switch it turns the light on and off without any problems.
LYLE leaves.
CUT TO:
SC33.
EXT. SUMMER HOUSE - DAY - DAY3
LYLE is out for a run in the grounds. As he runs near the summer house he sees the figure of a boy. He runs towards the summerhouse and the boy, but the boy disappears. He runs up to the summerhouse and goes inside.
CUT TO:
INT. SUMMER HOUSE - DAY - DAY3
LYLE stands just inside the door of the summerhouse. All is just as before. There is movement outside to his right and he clearly sees the figure of the boy outside looking in. The boy's face is clear now - it's the same as the boy in the nursery picture.
LYLE
Hey!
The figure of the boy moves.
LYLE
Wait!
LYLE runs outside.
CUT TO:
EXT. SUMMER HOUSE - DAY - DAY3
LYLE runs around the side of the summerhouse but the boy is gone. LYLE scans the grounds, but there is no sign of him.
LYLE
I just want to talk.
The boy does not appear. LYLE turns back towards the house.
CUT TO:
SC34.
INT. GUEST BEDROOM - DAY - DAY3
LYLE walks into the bedroom as LESTER comes out of the shower.
LESTER
Merry Christmas.
LESTER walks up to LYLE and they kiss.
LYLE
Merry Christmas to you!
LESTER
Did you enjoy your run?
LYLE
Yes, thanks. It's a nice day out there.
LYLE starts stripping off on his way to the en suite bathroom.
LYLE
When are we doing presents?
LESTER
After breakfast, I think. Assuming they've tied Colin down sufficiently!
LYLE
I bet they haven't!
LESTER
I think I'll head down and offer some support to the beleaguered parents.
LYLE
OK. See you.
LESTER leaves the room. LYLE comes out of the bathroom with a thoughtful look on his face. What is going on in this house?
CUT TO:
SC35.
INT. LIVING ROOM - DAY - DAY3
LESTER, LYLE, KATY, ANDREW and COLIN are in the sitting room. COLIN is sitting on the floor between the two sofas. There is only one parcel left under the tree. There is a pile of wrapping paper on the floor. Everyone has a few presents opened beside them, but it is clear that COLIN has got the most.
ANDREW gets up to fetch the final present.
LESTER coughs slightly.
KATY
That cough sounds much better. Are you feeling better?
LESTER
Much better, thank you.
ANDREW hands the present to COLIN.
ANDREW
There you go. That's our present to you. Merry Christmas!
COLIN
Thanks!
COLIN unwraps the large box while the adults look on with anticipation.
The present is a camera drone.
COLIN
Oh wow! Thank you! This is awesome! Peterson at school said he was getting one, but this is way better than the one he was getting. I can't wait to try it!
He jumps up and hugs KATY and then ANDREW.
ANDREW
There's a separate pack with the batteries. We can go out...
KATY
Ahem.
ANDREW (CONT'D)
Once we've cleared away and helped your mother with the Christmas dinner.
COLIN eagerly starts picking up the wrapping paper.
CUT TO:
SC36.
INT. KITCHEN - DAY - DAY3
KATY and COLIN are in the kitchen. KATY is lowering the Xmas pudding into the steamer, while COLIN is wrapping bacon around sausages and putting them in a tray. He puts the last sausage in the tray and looks hopefully at his mother.
COLIN
Finished!
KATY looks around.
KATY
Oh, who could resist a look like that! Go on. Go and play with the drone. And take your Father with you. Keep out from under my feet.
ANDREW walks in and looks innocent.
ANDREW
What?
KATY
Go on! I know you're dying to try it! Just don't let him take photos of our neighbours!
KATY makes shooing gestures with her hands and ANDREW and COLIN leave, grinning.
CUT TO:
SC37.
EXT. GROUNDS - DAY - DAY3
LYLE, LESTER, COLIN and ANDREW are in the grounds. COLIN is at the controls of the drone. The drone is wobbling slightly in the air, but COLIN is clearly getting more and more proficient at it.
LYLE
(to ANDREW)
He's a natural!
They walk along the path further into the grounds.
ANDREW
Keep it away from the trees, until you have enough height!
COLIN
I know, Dad!
LYLE
(to LESTER)
Are you thinking what I'm thinking?
LESTER
You want a new toy?
LYLE
If the budget could stretch to one or two, this could really help in the field.
LESTER
I see what you mean. You just know that Finn is going to want to attach a gun to one, though.
CUT TO:
SC38.
EXT. SUMMERHOUSE MOUND - DAY - DAY3
LESTER is walking through the grounds, idly watching ANDREW, COLIN and LYLE playing with the drone. He gets near the summer house mound. He sees a boy standing near the mound. He walks towards him, but the boy disappears. LESTER walks up to the mound and round it. He finds an old, wooden door in the side of the mound. Ivy grows across most of it. The hinges are rusted and it chained and padlocked. He touches the padlock. It is also rusted shut. LESTER
walks further round, but the boy is nowhere to be seen.
LESTER sees the others a little way away and walks towards them.
CUT TO:
SC39.
EXT. GROUNDS - DAY - DAY3
LYLE is standing near ANDREW and COLIN. ANDREW is finally getting to play with the drone under COLIN's supervision. LYLE sees LESTER walking towards them. LESTER has a serious, thoughtful look on his face.
LYLE
Penny for 'em!
LESTER
What would you say If I thought I'd seen a ghost?
LYLE
I'd ask if it was the boy at the summer house?
LESTER
(startled)
You've seen him too?
LYLE
Seen him and heard him upstairs in the nursery at night.
LESTER
Really?
LYLE
Oh yes. When you've been asleep in the arms of Night Nurse.
LESTER
Colin said it was haunted by the ghost of a boy who'd disappeared.
LYLE
The one in the photo we found in the nursery.
LESTER
You're sure?
LYLE
I heard noises from there last night. I went up to see what was happening. The boy in the photo turned to look at me.
LESTER
That's unusual.
LYLE
You don't seem surprised.
LESTER
I gave up being surprised when an extinct flying lizard crapped on my shoulder. Since then I have broadened my expectations of what the world can throw at us to include dinosaurs, predators from the far future, mutated business men and psychotic biologists. Your common or garden ghost seems positively mundane.
LYLE
When you put it like that, I see your point. What are going to do about it?
LESTER
Is there anything we can or need to do?
LYLE
I don't know.
LESTER
Let's wait and see and keep our eyes open. I'm not sure lurking around summerhouses and stomping about at night constitute dangerous behaviour.
LYLE
We should tell Andrew and Katy at least.
LESTER
What makes you think they don't already know? Colin does, so does the cleaner. I think it's an open secret nobody is talking about.
ANDREW walks up to them carrying the drone.
ANDREW
I've just had a text from Katy. Time to come in to dinner!
LYLE
Excellent! I could eat a horse!
They walk off towards the house.
CUT TO:
SC40.
INT. DINING ROOM - EVENING - DAY3
LESTER, LYLE, KATY, ANDREW and COLIN are sitting at the dining table on which is the remains of an Xmas dinner. Everyone except COLIN are wearing paper hats. The remnants of pulled crackers litter the table-top. Half a Christmas pudding is standing on a plate in the centre of the table. COLIN is trying to pour as much white sauce in his bowl as possible.
KATY
That's enough, Colin. You're supposed to have Christmas pudding with white sauce, not the other way round.
COLIN puts the sauce jug down.
ANDREW
Either Katy is trying to choke me to death or I've found the sixpence in the pudding!
ANDREW holds up the sixpence in triumph.
LESTER
Well done! I think that makes you king for the rest of the day.
LYLE
Does this mean we have to kill him at the end of Boxing Day, or can we wait until midsummer?
KATY
Oh midsummer I think. It'll take that long to build the wicker man.
LESTER
Can't you get one at the local garden centre?
KATY
Oh, you know. If you want it doing properly you have to do it yourself.
ANDREW
This is an arts and crafts house, after all.
COLIN
(squirming in his seat) )
Mum?
KATY
For the eighth time, Colin. There is plenty of time before Doctor Who. And if you haven't got an alarm set on your phone so we don't miss it, you're the only person around this table who doesn't!
COLIN subsides in his seat and looks a little sulky.
KATY
Shall we have coffee and mints in the library?
ANDREW
Well, as king for the evening. I say we do. And, I also say...
ANDREW looks hard at COLIN
ANDREW (CONTD...)
... that those who didn't cook, do the washing up!
CUT TO:
SC41.
INT. KITCHEN - EVENING - DAY3
The kitchen is ordered and tidy. A series of covered dishes on one side show where the left overs are. ANDREW and COLIN are filling the dishwasher together and KATY is pouring coffee into a coffee pot. She puts the cafetiere down and watches what they are doing.
KATY
(affectionately)
Oh, that's it. Neither of you get the job.
ANDREW and COLIN smile a little guiltily at her.
KATY
In fact, Colin, you're sacked! Take the tray with the cups and biscuits into the library before you do any more damage!
COLIN grins at her and obeys.
ANDREW
You know, delegation is the art of successful management.
KATY rearranges a few items in the dishwasher.
KATY
And I didn't get to run a successful events firm without supervising all the little details.
ANDREW
(fondly)
Micromanager!
KATY kisses him.
KATY
You love it really.
ANDREW
I so do.
ANDREW picks up the coffee pot.
ANDREW
Shall we get back to our guests?
CUT TO:
SC42.
INT. GUEST BEDROOM - NIGHT - DAY3
LESTER and LYLE are in bed reading. They hear the sound of footsteps from upstairs. LYLE checks his watch.
LYLE
Early tonight.
LYLE makes to get out of bed, but LESTER stops him.
LESTER
Leave the boy to himself. Let's make our own noise tonight.
LESTER kisses LYLE.
CUT TO:
SC43.
EXT. GROUNDS - DAY - DAY4
From high up in the air we can see the roof and the grounds of Stanton Hall. We track LYLE and ANDREW who are running up the drive and then swoop down towards COLIN who is controlling the drone.
CUT TO:
SC44.
INT. KITCHEN - DAY - DAY4
LESTER is filling his plate from a breakfast buffet layout on one of the work tops in the kitchen. KATY is sitting at the table with a large cup of coffee in her hands. LYLE and ANDREW come in, they are hot and sweaty from their run.
LYLE
Well I can safely say that Colin has a future in intelligence gathering from the way he's piloting that drone!
KATY
That's if robotics doesn't claim him.
ANDREW
Robotics and intelligence gathering!
ANDREW pours out a glass of orange juice and hands it to LYLE and then pours himself one.
LESTER
What are the plans for today?
KATY
Just a lazy day with leftovers, really.
ANDREW
I thought we might go down the pub later on this afternoon.
KATY
As long as you're back in time to help with the bubble and squeak.
ANDREW
Sure. Is that the steamed pudding thing?
LESTER
Not unless the recipe has gone drastically wrong.
ANDREW
You English and your quaint little customs.
LYLE
For that, the first round in is yours!
CUT TO:
SC45.
INT. PUB - EVENING - DAY4
It is a simple country pub. One big room with a bar along one wall and an open fire. There is a dart board and a shove halfpenny board at one end of the bar, but no one is playing. There are half a dozen men in the pub of varying ages and social class.
ANDREW, LYLE and LESTER go up to the bar.
ANDREW
What will you guys have?
ANDREW points to one of the pumps.
ANDREW (CONT'D)
I can recommend the Shere Drop.
LYLE and LESTER shrug in unison.
LESTER
Sounds good.
The barman comes over.
ANDREW
Three pints of Shere, please. And the next rounds are on me and one for yourself, of course.
ANDREW indicates the rest of the bar.
BARMAN
Right you are. And thank you. That's very kind of you.
The barman pulls the pints and hands them over. ANDREW attempts to hand over his credit card.
BARMAN
That's OK, sir. I don't need that. I'll keep a tab open. Just pay when you go.
(beat)
I know where you live, anyway.
ANDREW laughs and picks up his pint to follow LYLE and LESTER where they are sitting down near to a group of three local men near the fire.
LESTER
Nice pub.
ANDREW
It is. And it's a nice local, local.
An older man in tweeds comes up.
JOHNSON
ANDREW! Just the man! I was going to come up to see you about the church hall petition. Can I have a word?
ANDREW
Of course, Mr Johnson. Shall we?
ANDREW indicates a group of chairs a little way down the bar, grimaces at LESTER and LYLE and walks off to talk to JOHNSON.
LYLE and LESTER sip their drinks in silence and then one of the locals sitting close to them leans over.
PARKER
You staying over at the hall then?
LESTER
Yes, that's right.
PARKER
Rather you than me. I wouldn't stay there. It's haunted isn't it?
LYLE
We had noticed a couple of odd things, yes.
PARKER
My missus cleans up there. Says she hates going up to the second floor. It's creepy.
LYLE
What's the story?
PARKER
Well it's how Lord Stanton, who rebuilt the hall, had two children. An older girl and a young boy, called David. The girl gets married and after the reception, the boy disappears. He's never seen again.
LESTER
What do they think happened to him? Did he run away?
PARKER
No one knows. They searched but they never found him. Lady Stanton died of grief. And the governess went mad. She ended her days in Brookwood.
(off their puzzled looks)
The local loony bin.
LYLE
What about Lord Stanton?
PARKER
They say he never gave up looking for his son, but he died too. His daughter inherited the place, but never lived in it. Too many memories I suppose.
LESTER
What do people think happened?
PARKER
Young David gets seen sometimes. In the grounds. So I reckon he died and they just never found his body. Otherwise why would the ghost of a boy show up?
LYLE
That makes sense, I suppose.
LESTER
What about inside the house?
PARKER
Same thing, innit. My missus says they couldn't get any workmen to stay to work up there. Not even the Poles would do it. I don't blame 'em.
LESTER
Looks like Katy is going to have to pay danger money!
PARKER
Too right. You watch yourselves up there. It isn't natural. They want to get that vicar to do an exorcism or something to put it right.
LYLE
We'll keep an eye out, don't worry.
PARKER
Well, you make sure you do.
CUT TO:
SC46.
INT. NURSERY - NIGHT - DAY4
LYLE goes back into the nursery. As he switches the light on it flickers and the switch hisses but then the light remains steady.
LYLE goes to the photo on the mantelpiece and picks it up.
LYLE
What do you want?
GHOST (O.S.)
(whispers on the edge of hearing)
Bad boys.
LYLE spins round.
LYLE
What was that?
There is only silence.
LYLE walks over to the wall closet nearest the window and opens it. There are shelves from floor to ceiling, all empty and clean.
He goes over to the other closet. This one is a deep cupboard with hooks at the back so it looks like an old wardrobe. He leans in and then stumbles forward as though he has been pushed. He falls into the cupboard and the door shuts and locks behind him.
We can see him in the light coming round the edges of the cupboard doors.
For a moment, LYLE is panicked, pushing against the walls and the door looking for a way out or something to fight. Then his training takes over and he steadies himself and his breathing. He stays still.
LYLE
What is it? Who's there?
GHOST (O.S.)
(Whispering)
Boys are naughty... Bad boys are punished... Bad boys... Evil... Punishment... Naughty boys deserve...
LYLE
Who is this? David?
The whispering stops. The light in the nursery goes out and LYLE is in complete darkness.
LYLE switches on the light in his phone and pulls out a Swiss Army Knife. He opens the longest blade and inserts it into the gap between the door and lifts up the latch.
He walks into the room and shuts the cupboard door behind him.
He walks out of the nursery. The door to the room slams shut as he goes.
CUT TO:
SC47.
INT. HALL - DAY - DAY5
LESTER walks down the stairs to find KATY signing a delivery note for a delivery man. There are three buckets of flowers just inside the door. The delivery man takes back the clipboard and leaves.
LESTER
They look good.
KATY is inspecting them closely.
KATY
Yes, they're not bad. They're from a local garden centre. I try and shop local when I can.
LESTER
Noblesse oblige?
KATY
Without sounding awful, but yes. When you take over a Manor House you take on some of the responsibilities.
LESTER
Readings in church every Sunday? Pursuing the local poachers?
KATY
(laughing)
Church readings, no. Nothing is going to get ANDREW up that early on a Sunday. But church fetes, yes. And church flowers. Which is today's job.
LESTER
Do you need a hand? I'd like to see the place in daylight.
KATY
If you're feeling up to it?
LESTER
Oh, I think I'm cured beyond a couple of wheezes. I'm off the Night Nurse, which Jon says has reduced my snoring to normal levels. So, yes. Whenever you're ready!
KATY
That's great. I'll call Mercy, that's the vicar, and see when she can open the church for us.
CUT TO:
SC48.
INT. CHURCH - DAY - DAY5
KATY and LESTER walk down the aisle of the church towards MERCY, who is picking up a few hymn books from the pews. KATY is carrying one bucket of flowers, and LESTER the other two.
MERCY
Katy!
(off the flowers)
They look beautiful!
KATY
Coghills have done a good job. Best not think too much about the air miles, though. This is James Lester who's staying with us.
LESTER puts the buckets down and hold out his hand.
LESTER
We met at the Midnight Mass.
MERCY
Yes, of course. I hope you had a good Christmas.
LESTER
Very nice, thank you.
LESTER picks up the buckets.
LESTER
Where do you want these?
KATY
If you can take them into the vestry and then I'll round up the vases.
They all move off towards a side door.
CUT TO:
INT. CHURCH - DAY - DAY5
KATY and MERCY are making the final touches to a beautiful display of flowers beside the font. LESTER wanders around the church looking at monuments and decorations. He stops in front of a stained glass window. It is high Victorian, showing a shepherd holding a lamb on his shoulder. The text underneath is says: Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost.
MERCY walks to stand beside him.
MERCY
I see you are admiring our Burne-Jones window.
LESTER
Really? It's by him?
MERCY
Yes, he was a friend of the Stanton family. It was one of the last commissions he completed before he died.
LESTER
It's very good.
MERCY
It keeps us in the guide books. They call it The Lost Sheep window, but the locals call it the David Window.
LESTER
Oh! For the boy who was lost.
MERCY
I see you know the story.
LESTER
Yes. It's a bit inappropriate though isn't it? Celebrating finding the lost sheep when David was never found.
MERCY
I don't know. I think it was meant as a comfort, that God knew where David was even if his parents didn't.
LESTER
I take your point. I'm not sure it helped his parents that much if the stories are true.
MERCY
Oh yes. His mother certainly died within the year, but that was TB, which she would have had before David vanished. I know the locals want to make it all mysterious and cursed, but it's probably all just coincidence.
LESTER
Hmmm.
KATY
You don't sound convinced, James.
LESTER
Well, I don't think David is comforted by the window. Considering his active after-life.
KATY
(startled)
You've seen him?
LESTER
Yes and heard him. So's Lyle.
KATY
Oh. I was hoping it was just superstitious workmen and our imaginations.
(beat)
Poor thing. Still lost after all that time. I wish there was something we could do.
LESTER and KATY turn to MERCY.
MERCY
We can pray for him if you like.
KATY
Couldn't you...
LESTER
... Get the Holy Water out?
MERCY
The bishop has firm views about exorcisms and the like. He says they cause more problems than they solve.
LESTER
And what are your views, Reverend?
MERCY
I think there are more things in heaven and earth than are covered in Pastoral Care Lectures in Theological College. But let's not jump in with bell, book and candle just yet.
CUT TO:
SC49.
INT. FIRST FLOOR CORRIDOR - DAY - DAY5
COLIN walks along the corridor carrying his drone. He disappears into his bedroom but quickly comes out without his drone. He walks to the landing and then hesitates, thinking.
He makes a decision and walks upstairs.
CUT TO:
SC50.
INT. CORRIDOR OUTSIDE NURSERY - DAY - DAY5
COLIN stands outside the door to the nursery. He's nerving himself up for what he wants to do. He sticks his chin up and walks through the door into the nursery.
CUT TO:
SC51.
INT. NURSERY - DAY - DAY5
COLIN stands in the middle of the nursery and looks around. He goes towards the photo on the mantelpiece and looks at it, but doesn't touch it.
GHOST (O.S.)
(faint whispering)
Nasty boy.
COLIN spins around at the sound but there is no one there.
COLIN backs away out the room.
The door slams shut.
CUT TO:
SC52.
INT. CORRIDOR OUTSIDE NURSERY - DAY - DAY5
COLIN runs down the corridor and down the stairs.
CUT TO:
SC53.
INT. GUEST BEDROOM - NIGHT - DAY5
LESTER and LYLE are asleep in bed. There are the familiar sounds of footsteps above them. Very loud now.
First LYLE and then LESTER wake up.
LESTER
This is getting beyond a joke.
LYLE sits up and switches on the light. He pushes back the duvet.
LESTER
No. This is my turn.
LESTER gets up and puts his dressing gown on. He leaves the bedroom.
CUT TO:
SC54.
INT. NURSERY - NIGHT - DAY5
LESTER stomps into the nursery and switches on the light. He glares at the empty room.
LESTER
I don't know if you'd noticed but it is three in the morning and some people are trying to sleep here!
(beat)
I appreciate you may not be having the best afterlife, but can you at least try to keep it down!
LESTER marches out of the nursery, switching off the light.
The door slams behind him.
CUT TO:
SC55.
INT. HALL - DAY - DAY6
LESTER and LYLE walk down the stairs carrying their suitcases. They put them down beside the tree. ANDREW comes in from outside.
ANDREW
(off the suitcases)
I'm sorry you have to go back. It's been great having you both to stay. And Jon, you're as good as a fitness coach.
ANDREW pats his stomach.
ANDREW (CONT'D)
I might just survive this holiday season with having to keep up with you!
LESTER
I think that has to be the first time Jon's been caught distributing health!
LYLE
Okay, for that you're doing the driving back!
ANDREW
Come and have breakfast before you go!
CUT TO:
SC56.
INT. KITCHEN - DAY - DAY6
LESTER, LYLE, KATY, ANDREW and COLIN are sitting around the kitchen table having breakfast. There is still an abundance of food - toast, fruit, cereals, juices, coffee and tea - but somehow this feels more ordinary rather than festive. ANDREW is glancing at the Financial Times beside his bowl of muesli. KATY is frowning at something on her iPad.
COLIN
Dad?
ANDREW
Hmmm?
COLIN
Can we have the Star Wars marathon today?
ANDREW
I thought we were saving that for New Year's when your Mum is doing that big party?
COLIN
I know, but I want to do it now.
ANDREW
I'm sorry. I can watch one of the movies, but not all seven. I have work to do.
COLIN
Mum?
KATY
Sorry, sweetie. It's full tilt for me now until the party.
COLIN looks hopefully at LYLE.
LYLE
I'd love to, but we're going home straight after breakfast.
COLIN looks crestfallen.
KATY
When are you back at work?
LYLE
Tomorrow morning. And then I'm on shift until after New Year.
KATY
James?
LESTER
The same. I spend the time dealing the outrageous and sometimes fictional expense claims this lot put in.
LYLE sticks his tongue out, but he's rubbing his thumbs absently.
LESTER
(To LYLE)
Thumbs bothering you?
LYLE stops rubbing them.
LYLE
Probably just traffic problems on the A3.
KATY
Your thumbs can predict travel alerts?
LESTER
Just general trouble. If it just turns out to be traffic, I'll be happy.
LYLE
Here's hoping.
CUT TO:
SC57.
INT. KITCHEN - DAY - DAY6
LYLE and ANDREW are in the kitchen. ANDREW is putting the food away. LYLE is putting the dirty dishes in the dishwasher.
LYLE
Andy, do mind if I say something?
ANDREW stops what he is doing and turns to face LYLE.
ANDREW
Go on.
LYLE
You know you've got a ghost here, right?
ANDREW
I know the rumours, but I never put you down as being superstitious, Jon.
LYLE
I'm not superstitious. I know what I've seen and heard.
ANDREW
I don't believe in ghosts any more than I believe in fairies at the bottom of the garden.
LYLE
It's all very well not believing in fairies, but you have to take notice when they're digging up the shrubbery and setting fire to the shed!
ANDREW
You do believe in that stuff!
LYLE
Katy will tell you Lester and I deal with weird shit. It might not involve ghosts, but it's enough to shake what I used to think was possible.
ANDREW
I don't know what you're saying here.
LYLE
This house is haunted. You have a little boy appearing by the summer house and something nasty in the nursery. You might want to think about doing something about it.
ANDREW
(laughing)
And do what? Who we gonna call?
LYLE
I wish I knew. Just keep an eye out and be careful.
ANDREW
(sombre now)
Okay. Warning taken.
CUT TO:
SC58.
EXT. STANTON HALL DRIVE - DAY - DAY6
LYLE is putting the suitcases in the boot of the car as LESTER is talking to ANDREW, KATY and COLIN. LYLE shuts the boot of the car and walks up to them by the steps to the front door.
LYLE
Time to go, I'm afraid.
LESTER
(to ANDREW and KATY)
Thank you for such a wonderful Christmas. We've had a great time.
LYLE
Yes, we have. Thank you!
KATY
Nonsense! We've loved having you to stay. Take care on your journey back.
They all kiss or shake hands as appropriate.
LESTER and LYLE get in the car.
KATY
Goodbye. Safe trip!
ANDREW
See you soon, I hope!
COLIN
Goodbye Uncle James and Jon!
LESTER and LYLE drive off. KATY, ANDREW and COLIN wave as the car disappears down the drive. KATY and ANDREW stop waving and go back into the house. COLIN stands and waves for longer, until he notices that he's alone. COLIN stares down the empty drive for a beat and then turns and goes back into the house, sad at being back on his own again.
CUT TO:
SC59.
INT. CAR - DAY - DAY6
LESTER and LYLE are in the car, driving along the country lanes. LESTER reaches up and pulls the satnav off the window.
LYLE
What are you doing?
LESTER is entering a new destination in the satnav.
LESTER
Putting in the directions to the garden centre Katy uses for her flowers. I thought we'd send her a bouquet to say thank you for having us.
LYLE
Good idea. I see your mother brought you up right about such things.
LESTER
Well, Katy rates them, so there's no worry about quality and they deliver to her regularly so there's no chance of them going to the wrong house.
LYLE
That's almost sneaky!
LESTER
Must be the company I've been keeping!
LYLE
Ah yes, SAS - well known for its strategic bouquet sending!
CUT TO:
SC60.
INT. LIBRARY - DAY - DAY6
ANDREW is sitting behind his desk in the library. There are several books open in front of him with post-it note bookmarks in them. He has a document open in front of him and he is making notes in the margin.
COLIN walks in.
COLIN
Dad?
ANDREW
Yes, Colin?
COLIN
Can I watch Guardians of the Galaxy on the big screen, please? I'll put the headphones on.
ANDREW checks his watch.
ANDREW
I'm sorry. I've got two teleconference calls lined up now.
COLIN
Oh. Never mind.
COLIN starts to walk out of the room.
ANDREW
You could watch tonight if you like?
COLIN
Maybe.
COLIN leaves the room.
ANDREW frowns after him, but then his phone beeps and he starts to read the text. He starts work again. COLIN is forgotten for the moment.
CUT TO:
SC61.
EXT. COGHILLS' GARDEN CENTRE - DAY - DAY6
LYLE and LESTER pull up in the parking spaces by the entrance to Coghills' Garden Centre. There are a couple of other cars in. They both get out.
LESTER
I'll only be a few minutes.
LYLE
Okay. Get a good bouquet, mind. I'll pay half!
LESTER
Okay.
LESTER walks into the garden centre. LYLE leans against the car, absently rubbing his thumbs.
CUT TO:
SC62.
INT. KITCHEN - DAY - DAY6
KATY is busy in the kitchen. She has several bowls on the table and something simmering in a saucepan on the hob. She is making notes on a printed recipe. There is a smudge of flour on her temple and in her hair. Whatever she is making, it is not going well.
Katy's phone beeps and she quickly wipes her hands and picks it up to read the message.
COLIN mooches in.
COLIN
Mum?
KATY
Hmm?
COLIN
I'm bored.
KATY lowers her phone enough to look at him.
KATY
I wish I was.
KATY continues tapping out a reply on her phone.
COLIN wanders over to the kitchen table. He reads the recipe and then picks up some dried fruit from the table. He puts a bit in his mouth, glancing to see if his mother has noticed. He saunters across to the stove and knocks a tub of flour on to the floor as he walks past it. It crashes and spills on the floor.
KATY
COLIN!
COLIN
I'm sorry! It just fell off!
KATY is reaching for the dustpan and brush.
KATY
I can see what it did.
KATY hands COLIN the dustpan.
KATY
Here hold this steady.
COLIN tries, but he's not very good at it. The flour spreads further as KATY tries to sweep it up. COLIN tries to help, but only succeeds in knocking the brush out of KATY's hands.
KATY
COLIN! Just go. I'll sort it out. It's OK.
COLIN
I'm sorry.
(beat)
I don't know what to do.
KATY
You have the robots. Or you have your drone. Or you could hang-glide off the stable roof! Quite frankly, I'm not bothered about what you do, just as long as you're not doing it here!
COLIN escapes.
KATY glares after him and then bends to start sweeping up the flour again.
CUT TO:
SC63.
EXT. COGHILLS GARDEN CENTRE - DAY - DAY6
LYLE is still leaning against the car as LESTER walks out of the garden centre. LESTER has the air of a man satisfied with what he has just arranged.
Suddenly LYLE gives a little cry and looks at his hands.
LESTER
What's up?
LYLE
My thumbs. Something's really kicking off.
LESTER
How bad?
LYLE
Something major. I'll phone Mum. You try the ARC.
LYLE pulls out his phone and dials a number. LESTER is doing the same on the other side of the car.
We hear the dialling tone and then it's picked up.
JULIA (O.S.)
Hello, sweetie.
LYLE
Mum! Are you OK?
JULIA (O.S.)
Yes, we're fine. Merry Christmas to you!
LYLE
Are you sure? My thumbs just kicked off big style.
JULIA (O.S.)
Well, if your stepfather sets off that laughing Santa one more time, he's not going to make it to New Year. But otherwise we're absolutely fine here.
LYLE
(doubtful)
Well if you're sure.
JULIA (O.S.)
Really. We're fine. And my thumbs haven't so much as twinged.
LYLE
Okay. You let me know if anything does happen.
JULIA (O.S.)
Of course, sweetie. My love to James.
LYLE
Bye, Mum. Love you.
JULIA (O.S.)
Love you too. Bye.
LYLE presses the disconnect button. On the other side of the car, LESTER is doing much the same thing.
LESTER looks at LYLE and shakes his head.
LESTER
Ryan says it's been a really quiet Christmas. So far not a peep out of the ADD today. He says he'll get Connor to do a sweep of the internet to see if we've missed anything, but he doesn't think so.
LYLE rubs his thumbs.
LYLE
Mum's fine. The ARC's fine. So what does that leave us?
LESTER
Where have we just been?
LYLE
Oh, you're kidding!
LESTER
We're twenty minutes away. We'd better go check.
LESTER and LYLE hurry into the car.
CUT TO:
SC64.
EXT. FRONT DOOR - DAY - DAY6
The front door opens and COLIN walks out. He is carrying his drone. He closes the door carefully behind him. He examines the gardens in front of him considering which way to go. He makes up his mind and heads to his left.
CUT TO:
SC65.
INT. CAR -DAY - DAY6
LYLE is driving. He is in work mode. All concentration and speed. LESTER puts his phone in his lap with an exasperated sigh.
LYLE
What?
LESTER
Straight to voicemail on both their phones.
LYLE
That's not the best sign.
LESTER
I know.
(beat)
How are we going to handle this?
LYLE
Drive up. Say hello. Ask if there's any trouble happening.
LESTER
Feels embarrassing.
LYLE
An old sergeant of mine used to say that it's better to look like an idiot than to actually be an idiot.
LESTER
I suppose so.
LYLE
Put it this way. If we don't go and check and something bad happens how much worse is that
going to make you feel.
LESTER
You're right, of course. But it goes against all my civil service training!
LYLE
(laughing)
I love you, James Lester.
CUT TO:
SC66.
EXT. SUMMER HOUSE - DAY - DAY6
COLIN is flying the drone near the summer house. He is having fun, but he's still not in total control of the drone, which is wobbling in the air quite a bit.
Out of sight of COLIN the GHOST BOY appears on the other side of the summer house. He is looking up at the drone. Suddenly it starts to veer wildly. The GHOST BOY vanishes and the drone crashes into the tree growing out of the summer house.
COLIN
Oh no!
COLIN puts the controller down and walks towards the entrance to the summer house.
CUT TO:
SC67.
INT. CAR - DAY - DAY6
LYLE is driving fast, fully concentrating on the road. LESTER is holding on through the bends by holding the handle above the window. They turn into the gates for Stanton Hall and LESTER is flung to the side.
LESTER
Jesus! Jon!
LYLE says nothing but keeps on driving fast. The house appears in the windscreen and LYLE brakes. We can hear the squeal of the brakes the scatter of the gravel.
LESTER is opening his car door almost before the car has fully stopped.
CUT TO:
EXT. FRONT DRIVE - DAY - DAY6
LESTER is up the front steps before LYLE is properly out of the car. He goes through the door without knocking.
LESTER (O.S.)
Katy! Andrew!
CUT TO:
SC68.
INT. SUMMER HOUSE - DAY - DAY6
COLIN is nearly at the top of the tree. The drone is only a couple of branches above him, but there is no easy way to get to it. He stands on a branch, while holding on to the trunk, and tries to reach the drone. He can't. He moves along the branch until he is just touching the trunk and stretches up. His fingers are just about touching the drone.
He wobbles a bit and looks down. The GHOST BOY is standing on the ground looking straight up into COLIN's eyes.
COLIN starts and loses his balance. He tries to save himself, but he falls from the tree. He lands and then goes through the floor of the summer house. He disappears into the mound beneath.
CUT TO:
Author:
bigtitchWord Count: lots
Rating: PG 13
Characters/Pairing: Lester/Lyle, OCs
Author notes: Secret Santa for
fredbassett, she wanted a ghost story for Xmas. Lester and Lyle decided to oblige. Mega thanks to fififolle for going above and beyond the call of duty with the betaing. Lester and Lyle spend the Xmas break with one of Lester's old friends in her country house. However, the old secrets the house contains are going to come to light this Xmas.
SC32.
INT. NURSERY - DAY - DAY3
It is daylight. LYLE, fully dressed, enters the nursery. He goes straight to the mantelpiece and picks up the photo. It is as it was when they first found it - the boy is staring at his sister not out of the picture. LYLE puts it back. On his way out the room he tries the light switch it turns the light on and off without any problems.
LYLE leaves.
CUT TO:
SC33.
EXT. SUMMER HOUSE - DAY - DAY3
LYLE is out for a run in the grounds. As he runs near the summer house he sees the figure of a boy. He runs towards the summerhouse and the boy, but the boy disappears. He runs up to the summerhouse and goes inside.
CUT TO:
INT. SUMMER HOUSE - DAY - DAY3
LYLE stands just inside the door of the summerhouse. All is just as before. There is movement outside to his right and he clearly sees the figure of the boy outside looking in. The boy's face is clear now - it's the same as the boy in the nursery picture.
LYLE
Hey!
The figure of the boy moves.
LYLE
Wait!
LYLE runs outside.
CUT TO:
EXT. SUMMER HOUSE - DAY - DAY3
LYLE runs around the side of the summerhouse but the boy is gone. LYLE scans the grounds, but there is no sign of him.
LYLE
I just want to talk.
The boy does not appear. LYLE turns back towards the house.
CUT TO:
SC34.
INT. GUEST BEDROOM - DAY - DAY3
LYLE walks into the bedroom as LESTER comes out of the shower.
LESTER
Merry Christmas.
LESTER walks up to LYLE and they kiss.
LYLE
Merry Christmas to you!
LESTER
Did you enjoy your run?
LYLE
Yes, thanks. It's a nice day out there.
LYLE starts stripping off on his way to the en suite bathroom.
LYLE
When are we doing presents?
LESTER
After breakfast, I think. Assuming they've tied Colin down sufficiently!
LYLE
I bet they haven't!
LESTER
I think I'll head down and offer some support to the beleaguered parents.
LYLE
OK. See you.
LESTER leaves the room. LYLE comes out of the bathroom with a thoughtful look on his face. What is going on in this house?
CUT TO:
SC35.
INT. LIVING ROOM - DAY - DAY3
LESTER, LYLE, KATY, ANDREW and COLIN are in the sitting room. COLIN is sitting on the floor between the two sofas. There is only one parcel left under the tree. There is a pile of wrapping paper on the floor. Everyone has a few presents opened beside them, but it is clear that COLIN has got the most.
ANDREW gets up to fetch the final present.
LESTER coughs slightly.
KATY
That cough sounds much better. Are you feeling better?
LESTER
Much better, thank you.
ANDREW hands the present to COLIN.
ANDREW
There you go. That's our present to you. Merry Christmas!
COLIN
Thanks!
COLIN unwraps the large box while the adults look on with anticipation.
The present is a camera drone.
COLIN
Oh wow! Thank you! This is awesome! Peterson at school said he was getting one, but this is way better than the one he was getting. I can't wait to try it!
He jumps up and hugs KATY and then ANDREW.
ANDREW
There's a separate pack with the batteries. We can go out...
KATY
Ahem.
ANDREW (CONT'D)
Once we've cleared away and helped your mother with the Christmas dinner.
COLIN eagerly starts picking up the wrapping paper.
CUT TO:
SC36.
INT. KITCHEN - DAY - DAY3
KATY and COLIN are in the kitchen. KATY is lowering the Xmas pudding into the steamer, while COLIN is wrapping bacon around sausages and putting them in a tray. He puts the last sausage in the tray and looks hopefully at his mother.
COLIN
Finished!
KATY looks around.
KATY
Oh, who could resist a look like that! Go on. Go and play with the drone. And take your Father with you. Keep out from under my feet.
ANDREW walks in and looks innocent.
ANDREW
What?
KATY
Go on! I know you're dying to try it! Just don't let him take photos of our neighbours!
KATY makes shooing gestures with her hands and ANDREW and COLIN leave, grinning.
CUT TO:
SC37.
EXT. GROUNDS - DAY - DAY3
LYLE, LESTER, COLIN and ANDREW are in the grounds. COLIN is at the controls of the drone. The drone is wobbling slightly in the air, but COLIN is clearly getting more and more proficient at it.
LYLE
(to ANDREW)
He's a natural!
They walk along the path further into the grounds.
ANDREW
Keep it away from the trees, until you have enough height!
COLIN
I know, Dad!
LYLE
(to LESTER)
Are you thinking what I'm thinking?
LESTER
You want a new toy?
LYLE
If the budget could stretch to one or two, this could really help in the field.
LESTER
I see what you mean. You just know that Finn is going to want to attach a gun to one, though.
CUT TO:
SC38.
EXT. SUMMERHOUSE MOUND - DAY - DAY3
LESTER is walking through the grounds, idly watching ANDREW, COLIN and LYLE playing with the drone. He gets near the summer house mound. He sees a boy standing near the mound. He walks towards him, but the boy disappears. LESTER walks up to the mound and round it. He finds an old, wooden door in the side of the mound. Ivy grows across most of it. The hinges are rusted and it chained and padlocked. He touches the padlock. It is also rusted shut. LESTER
walks further round, but the boy is nowhere to be seen.
LESTER sees the others a little way away and walks towards them.
CUT TO:
SC39.
EXT. GROUNDS - DAY - DAY3
LYLE is standing near ANDREW and COLIN. ANDREW is finally getting to play with the drone under COLIN's supervision. LYLE sees LESTER walking towards them. LESTER has a serious, thoughtful look on his face.
LYLE
Penny for 'em!
LESTER
What would you say If I thought I'd seen a ghost?
LYLE
I'd ask if it was the boy at the summer house?
LESTER
(startled)
You've seen him too?
LYLE
Seen him and heard him upstairs in the nursery at night.
LESTER
Really?
LYLE
Oh yes. When you've been asleep in the arms of Night Nurse.
LESTER
Colin said it was haunted by the ghost of a boy who'd disappeared.
LYLE
The one in the photo we found in the nursery.
LESTER
You're sure?
LYLE
I heard noises from there last night. I went up to see what was happening. The boy in the photo turned to look at me.
LESTER
That's unusual.
LYLE
You don't seem surprised.
LESTER
I gave up being surprised when an extinct flying lizard crapped on my shoulder. Since then I have broadened my expectations of what the world can throw at us to include dinosaurs, predators from the far future, mutated business men and psychotic biologists. Your common or garden ghost seems positively mundane.
LYLE
When you put it like that, I see your point. What are going to do about it?
LESTER
Is there anything we can or need to do?
LYLE
I don't know.
LESTER
Let's wait and see and keep our eyes open. I'm not sure lurking around summerhouses and stomping about at night constitute dangerous behaviour.
LYLE
We should tell Andrew and Katy at least.
LESTER
What makes you think they don't already know? Colin does, so does the cleaner. I think it's an open secret nobody is talking about.
ANDREW walks up to them carrying the drone.
ANDREW
I've just had a text from Katy. Time to come in to dinner!
LYLE
Excellent! I could eat a horse!
They walk off towards the house.
CUT TO:
SC40.
INT. DINING ROOM - EVENING - DAY3
LESTER, LYLE, KATY, ANDREW and COLIN are sitting at the dining table on which is the remains of an Xmas dinner. Everyone except COLIN are wearing paper hats. The remnants of pulled crackers litter the table-top. Half a Christmas pudding is standing on a plate in the centre of the table. COLIN is trying to pour as much white sauce in his bowl as possible.
KATY
That's enough, Colin. You're supposed to have Christmas pudding with white sauce, not the other way round.
COLIN puts the sauce jug down.
ANDREW
Either Katy is trying to choke me to death or I've found the sixpence in the pudding!
ANDREW holds up the sixpence in triumph.
LESTER
Well done! I think that makes you king for the rest of the day.
LYLE
Does this mean we have to kill him at the end of Boxing Day, or can we wait until midsummer?
KATY
Oh midsummer I think. It'll take that long to build the wicker man.
LESTER
Can't you get one at the local garden centre?
KATY
Oh, you know. If you want it doing properly you have to do it yourself.
ANDREW
This is an arts and crafts house, after all.
COLIN
(squirming in his seat) )
Mum?
KATY
For the eighth time, Colin. There is plenty of time before Doctor Who. And if you haven't got an alarm set on your phone so we don't miss it, you're the only person around this table who doesn't!
COLIN subsides in his seat and looks a little sulky.
KATY
Shall we have coffee and mints in the library?
ANDREW
Well, as king for the evening. I say we do. And, I also say...
ANDREW looks hard at COLIN
ANDREW (CONTD...)
... that those who didn't cook, do the washing up!
CUT TO:
SC41.
INT. KITCHEN - EVENING - DAY3
The kitchen is ordered and tidy. A series of covered dishes on one side show where the left overs are. ANDREW and COLIN are filling the dishwasher together and KATY is pouring coffee into a coffee pot. She puts the cafetiere down and watches what they are doing.
KATY
(affectionately)
Oh, that's it. Neither of you get the job.
ANDREW and COLIN smile a little guiltily at her.
KATY
In fact, Colin, you're sacked! Take the tray with the cups and biscuits into the library before you do any more damage!
COLIN grins at her and obeys.
ANDREW
You know, delegation is the art of successful management.
KATY rearranges a few items in the dishwasher.
KATY
And I didn't get to run a successful events firm without supervising all the little details.
ANDREW
(fondly)
Micromanager!
KATY kisses him.
KATY
You love it really.
ANDREW
I so do.
ANDREW picks up the coffee pot.
ANDREW
Shall we get back to our guests?
CUT TO:
SC42.
INT. GUEST BEDROOM - NIGHT - DAY3
LESTER and LYLE are in bed reading. They hear the sound of footsteps from upstairs. LYLE checks his watch.
LYLE
Early tonight.
LYLE makes to get out of bed, but LESTER stops him.
LESTER
Leave the boy to himself. Let's make our own noise tonight.
LESTER kisses LYLE.
CUT TO:
SC43.
EXT. GROUNDS - DAY - DAY4
From high up in the air we can see the roof and the grounds of Stanton Hall. We track LYLE and ANDREW who are running up the drive and then swoop down towards COLIN who is controlling the drone.
CUT TO:
SC44.
INT. KITCHEN - DAY - DAY4
LESTER is filling his plate from a breakfast buffet layout on one of the work tops in the kitchen. KATY is sitting at the table with a large cup of coffee in her hands. LYLE and ANDREW come in, they are hot and sweaty from their run.
LYLE
Well I can safely say that Colin has a future in intelligence gathering from the way he's piloting that drone!
KATY
That's if robotics doesn't claim him.
ANDREW
Robotics and intelligence gathering!
ANDREW pours out a glass of orange juice and hands it to LYLE and then pours himself one.
LESTER
What are the plans for today?
KATY
Just a lazy day with leftovers, really.
ANDREW
I thought we might go down the pub later on this afternoon.
KATY
As long as you're back in time to help with the bubble and squeak.
ANDREW
Sure. Is that the steamed pudding thing?
LESTER
Not unless the recipe has gone drastically wrong.
ANDREW
You English and your quaint little customs.
LYLE
For that, the first round in is yours!
CUT TO:
SC45.
INT. PUB - EVENING - DAY4
It is a simple country pub. One big room with a bar along one wall and an open fire. There is a dart board and a shove halfpenny board at one end of the bar, but no one is playing. There are half a dozen men in the pub of varying ages and social class.
ANDREW, LYLE and LESTER go up to the bar.
ANDREW
What will you guys have?
ANDREW points to one of the pumps.
ANDREW (CONT'D)
I can recommend the Shere Drop.
LYLE and LESTER shrug in unison.
LESTER
Sounds good.
The barman comes over.
ANDREW
Three pints of Shere, please. And the next rounds are on me and one for yourself, of course.
ANDREW indicates the rest of the bar.
BARMAN
Right you are. And thank you. That's very kind of you.
The barman pulls the pints and hands them over. ANDREW attempts to hand over his credit card.
BARMAN
That's OK, sir. I don't need that. I'll keep a tab open. Just pay when you go.
(beat)
I know where you live, anyway.
ANDREW laughs and picks up his pint to follow LYLE and LESTER where they are sitting down near to a group of three local men near the fire.
LESTER
Nice pub.
ANDREW
It is. And it's a nice local, local.
An older man in tweeds comes up.
JOHNSON
ANDREW! Just the man! I was going to come up to see you about the church hall petition. Can I have a word?
ANDREW
Of course, Mr Johnson. Shall we?
ANDREW indicates a group of chairs a little way down the bar, grimaces at LESTER and LYLE and walks off to talk to JOHNSON.
LYLE and LESTER sip their drinks in silence and then one of the locals sitting close to them leans over.
PARKER
You staying over at the hall then?
LESTER
Yes, that's right.
PARKER
Rather you than me. I wouldn't stay there. It's haunted isn't it?
LYLE
We had noticed a couple of odd things, yes.
PARKER
My missus cleans up there. Says she hates going up to the second floor. It's creepy.
LYLE
What's the story?
PARKER
Well it's how Lord Stanton, who rebuilt the hall, had two children. An older girl and a young boy, called David. The girl gets married and after the reception, the boy disappears. He's never seen again.
LESTER
What do they think happened to him? Did he run away?
PARKER
No one knows. They searched but they never found him. Lady Stanton died of grief. And the governess went mad. She ended her days in Brookwood.
(off their puzzled looks)
The local loony bin.
LYLE
What about Lord Stanton?
PARKER
They say he never gave up looking for his son, but he died too. His daughter inherited the place, but never lived in it. Too many memories I suppose.
LESTER
What do people think happened?
PARKER
Young David gets seen sometimes. In the grounds. So I reckon he died and they just never found his body. Otherwise why would the ghost of a boy show up?
LYLE
That makes sense, I suppose.
LESTER
What about inside the house?
PARKER
Same thing, innit. My missus says they couldn't get any workmen to stay to work up there. Not even the Poles would do it. I don't blame 'em.
LESTER
Looks like Katy is going to have to pay danger money!
PARKER
Too right. You watch yourselves up there. It isn't natural. They want to get that vicar to do an exorcism or something to put it right.
LYLE
We'll keep an eye out, don't worry.
PARKER
Well, you make sure you do.
CUT TO:
SC46.
INT. NURSERY - NIGHT - DAY4
LYLE goes back into the nursery. As he switches the light on it flickers and the switch hisses but then the light remains steady.
LYLE goes to the photo on the mantelpiece and picks it up.
LYLE
What do you want?
GHOST (O.S.)
(whispers on the edge of hearing)
Bad boys.
LYLE spins round.
LYLE
What was that?
There is only silence.
LYLE walks over to the wall closet nearest the window and opens it. There are shelves from floor to ceiling, all empty and clean.
He goes over to the other closet. This one is a deep cupboard with hooks at the back so it looks like an old wardrobe. He leans in and then stumbles forward as though he has been pushed. He falls into the cupboard and the door shuts and locks behind him.
We can see him in the light coming round the edges of the cupboard doors.
For a moment, LYLE is panicked, pushing against the walls and the door looking for a way out or something to fight. Then his training takes over and he steadies himself and his breathing. He stays still.
LYLE
What is it? Who's there?
GHOST (O.S.)
(Whispering)
Boys are naughty... Bad boys are punished... Bad boys... Evil... Punishment... Naughty boys deserve...
LYLE
Who is this? David?
The whispering stops. The light in the nursery goes out and LYLE is in complete darkness.
LYLE switches on the light in his phone and pulls out a Swiss Army Knife. He opens the longest blade and inserts it into the gap between the door and lifts up the latch.
He walks into the room and shuts the cupboard door behind him.
He walks out of the nursery. The door to the room slams shut as he goes.
CUT TO:
SC47.
INT. HALL - DAY - DAY5
LESTER walks down the stairs to find KATY signing a delivery note for a delivery man. There are three buckets of flowers just inside the door. The delivery man takes back the clipboard and leaves.
LESTER
They look good.
KATY is inspecting them closely.
KATY
Yes, they're not bad. They're from a local garden centre. I try and shop local when I can.
LESTER
Noblesse oblige?
KATY
Without sounding awful, but yes. When you take over a Manor House you take on some of the responsibilities.
LESTER
Readings in church every Sunday? Pursuing the local poachers?
KATY
(laughing)
Church readings, no. Nothing is going to get ANDREW up that early on a Sunday. But church fetes, yes. And church flowers. Which is today's job.
LESTER
Do you need a hand? I'd like to see the place in daylight.
KATY
If you're feeling up to it?
LESTER
Oh, I think I'm cured beyond a couple of wheezes. I'm off the Night Nurse, which Jon says has reduced my snoring to normal levels. So, yes. Whenever you're ready!
KATY
That's great. I'll call Mercy, that's the vicar, and see when she can open the church for us.
CUT TO:
SC48.
INT. CHURCH - DAY - DAY5
KATY and LESTER walk down the aisle of the church towards MERCY, who is picking up a few hymn books from the pews. KATY is carrying one bucket of flowers, and LESTER the other two.
MERCY
Katy!
(off the flowers)
They look beautiful!
KATY
Coghills have done a good job. Best not think too much about the air miles, though. This is James Lester who's staying with us.
LESTER puts the buckets down and hold out his hand.
LESTER
We met at the Midnight Mass.
MERCY
Yes, of course. I hope you had a good Christmas.
LESTER
Very nice, thank you.
LESTER picks up the buckets.
LESTER
Where do you want these?
KATY
If you can take them into the vestry and then I'll round up the vases.
They all move off towards a side door.
CUT TO:
INT. CHURCH - DAY - DAY5
KATY and MERCY are making the final touches to a beautiful display of flowers beside the font. LESTER wanders around the church looking at monuments and decorations. He stops in front of a stained glass window. It is high Victorian, showing a shepherd holding a lamb on his shoulder. The text underneath is says: Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost.
MERCY walks to stand beside him.
MERCY
I see you are admiring our Burne-Jones window.
LESTER
Really? It's by him?
MERCY
Yes, he was a friend of the Stanton family. It was one of the last commissions he completed before he died.
LESTER
It's very good.
MERCY
It keeps us in the guide books. They call it The Lost Sheep window, but the locals call it the David Window.
LESTER
Oh! For the boy who was lost.
MERCY
I see you know the story.
LESTER
Yes. It's a bit inappropriate though isn't it? Celebrating finding the lost sheep when David was never found.
MERCY
I don't know. I think it was meant as a comfort, that God knew where David was even if his parents didn't.
LESTER
I take your point. I'm not sure it helped his parents that much if the stories are true.
MERCY
Oh yes. His mother certainly died within the year, but that was TB, which she would have had before David vanished. I know the locals want to make it all mysterious and cursed, but it's probably all just coincidence.
LESTER
Hmmm.
KATY
You don't sound convinced, James.
LESTER
Well, I don't think David is comforted by the window. Considering his active after-life.
KATY
(startled)
You've seen him?
LESTER
Yes and heard him. So's Lyle.
KATY
Oh. I was hoping it was just superstitious workmen and our imaginations.
(beat)
Poor thing. Still lost after all that time. I wish there was something we could do.
LESTER and KATY turn to MERCY.
MERCY
We can pray for him if you like.
KATY
Couldn't you...
LESTER
... Get the Holy Water out?
MERCY
The bishop has firm views about exorcisms and the like. He says they cause more problems than they solve.
LESTER
And what are your views, Reverend?
MERCY
I think there are more things in heaven and earth than are covered in Pastoral Care Lectures in Theological College. But let's not jump in with bell, book and candle just yet.
CUT TO:
SC49.
INT. FIRST FLOOR CORRIDOR - DAY - DAY5
COLIN walks along the corridor carrying his drone. He disappears into his bedroom but quickly comes out without his drone. He walks to the landing and then hesitates, thinking.
He makes a decision and walks upstairs.
CUT TO:
SC50.
INT. CORRIDOR OUTSIDE NURSERY - DAY - DAY5
COLIN stands outside the door to the nursery. He's nerving himself up for what he wants to do. He sticks his chin up and walks through the door into the nursery.
CUT TO:
SC51.
INT. NURSERY - DAY - DAY5
COLIN stands in the middle of the nursery and looks around. He goes towards the photo on the mantelpiece and looks at it, but doesn't touch it.
GHOST (O.S.)
(faint whispering)
Nasty boy.
COLIN spins around at the sound but there is no one there.
COLIN backs away out the room.
The door slams shut.
CUT TO:
SC52.
INT. CORRIDOR OUTSIDE NURSERY - DAY - DAY5
COLIN runs down the corridor and down the stairs.
CUT TO:
SC53.
INT. GUEST BEDROOM - NIGHT - DAY5
LESTER and LYLE are asleep in bed. There are the familiar sounds of footsteps above them. Very loud now.
First LYLE and then LESTER wake up.
LESTER
This is getting beyond a joke.
LYLE sits up and switches on the light. He pushes back the duvet.
LESTER
No. This is my turn.
LESTER gets up and puts his dressing gown on. He leaves the bedroom.
CUT TO:
SC54.
INT. NURSERY - NIGHT - DAY5
LESTER stomps into the nursery and switches on the light. He glares at the empty room.
LESTER
I don't know if you'd noticed but it is three in the morning and some people are trying to sleep here!
(beat)
I appreciate you may not be having the best afterlife, but can you at least try to keep it down!
LESTER marches out of the nursery, switching off the light.
The door slams behind him.
CUT TO:
SC55.
INT. HALL - DAY - DAY6
LESTER and LYLE walk down the stairs carrying their suitcases. They put them down beside the tree. ANDREW comes in from outside.
ANDREW
(off the suitcases)
I'm sorry you have to go back. It's been great having you both to stay. And Jon, you're as good as a fitness coach.
ANDREW pats his stomach.
ANDREW (CONT'D)
I might just survive this holiday season with having to keep up with you!
LESTER
I think that has to be the first time Jon's been caught distributing health!
LYLE
Okay, for that you're doing the driving back!
ANDREW
Come and have breakfast before you go!
CUT TO:
SC56.
INT. KITCHEN - DAY - DAY6
LESTER, LYLE, KATY, ANDREW and COLIN are sitting around the kitchen table having breakfast. There is still an abundance of food - toast, fruit, cereals, juices, coffee and tea - but somehow this feels more ordinary rather than festive. ANDREW is glancing at the Financial Times beside his bowl of muesli. KATY is frowning at something on her iPad.
COLIN
Dad?
ANDREW
Hmmm?
COLIN
Can we have the Star Wars marathon today?
ANDREW
I thought we were saving that for New Year's when your Mum is doing that big party?
COLIN
I know, but I want to do it now.
ANDREW
I'm sorry. I can watch one of the movies, but not all seven. I have work to do.
COLIN
Mum?
KATY
Sorry, sweetie. It's full tilt for me now until the party.
COLIN looks hopefully at LYLE.
LYLE
I'd love to, but we're going home straight after breakfast.
COLIN looks crestfallen.
KATY
When are you back at work?
LYLE
Tomorrow morning. And then I'm on shift until after New Year.
KATY
James?
LESTER
The same. I spend the time dealing the outrageous and sometimes fictional expense claims this lot put in.
LYLE sticks his tongue out, but he's rubbing his thumbs absently.
LESTER
(To LYLE)
Thumbs bothering you?
LYLE stops rubbing them.
LYLE
Probably just traffic problems on the A3.
KATY
Your thumbs can predict travel alerts?
LESTER
Just general trouble. If it just turns out to be traffic, I'll be happy.
LYLE
Here's hoping.
CUT TO:
SC57.
INT. KITCHEN - DAY - DAY6
LYLE and ANDREW are in the kitchen. ANDREW is putting the food away. LYLE is putting the dirty dishes in the dishwasher.
LYLE
Andy, do mind if I say something?
ANDREW stops what he is doing and turns to face LYLE.
ANDREW
Go on.
LYLE
You know you've got a ghost here, right?
ANDREW
I know the rumours, but I never put you down as being superstitious, Jon.
LYLE
I'm not superstitious. I know what I've seen and heard.
ANDREW
I don't believe in ghosts any more than I believe in fairies at the bottom of the garden.
LYLE
It's all very well not believing in fairies, but you have to take notice when they're digging up the shrubbery and setting fire to the shed!
ANDREW
You do believe in that stuff!
LYLE
Katy will tell you Lester and I deal with weird shit. It might not involve ghosts, but it's enough to shake what I used to think was possible.
ANDREW
I don't know what you're saying here.
LYLE
This house is haunted. You have a little boy appearing by the summer house and something nasty in the nursery. You might want to think about doing something about it.
ANDREW
(laughing)
And do what? Who we gonna call?
LYLE
I wish I knew. Just keep an eye out and be careful.
ANDREW
(sombre now)
Okay. Warning taken.
CUT TO:
SC58.
EXT. STANTON HALL DRIVE - DAY - DAY6
LYLE is putting the suitcases in the boot of the car as LESTER is talking to ANDREW, KATY and COLIN. LYLE shuts the boot of the car and walks up to them by the steps to the front door.
LYLE
Time to go, I'm afraid.
LESTER
(to ANDREW and KATY)
Thank you for such a wonderful Christmas. We've had a great time.
LYLE
Yes, we have. Thank you!
KATY
Nonsense! We've loved having you to stay. Take care on your journey back.
They all kiss or shake hands as appropriate.
LESTER and LYLE get in the car.
KATY
Goodbye. Safe trip!
ANDREW
See you soon, I hope!
COLIN
Goodbye Uncle James and Jon!
LESTER and LYLE drive off. KATY, ANDREW and COLIN wave as the car disappears down the drive. KATY and ANDREW stop waving and go back into the house. COLIN stands and waves for longer, until he notices that he's alone. COLIN stares down the empty drive for a beat and then turns and goes back into the house, sad at being back on his own again.
CUT TO:
SC59.
INT. CAR - DAY - DAY6
LESTER and LYLE are in the car, driving along the country lanes. LESTER reaches up and pulls the satnav off the window.
LYLE
What are you doing?
LESTER is entering a new destination in the satnav.
LESTER
Putting in the directions to the garden centre Katy uses for her flowers. I thought we'd send her a bouquet to say thank you for having us.
LYLE
Good idea. I see your mother brought you up right about such things.
LESTER
Well, Katy rates them, so there's no worry about quality and they deliver to her regularly so there's no chance of them going to the wrong house.
LYLE
That's almost sneaky!
LESTER
Must be the company I've been keeping!
LYLE
Ah yes, SAS - well known for its strategic bouquet sending!
CUT TO:
SC60.
INT. LIBRARY - DAY - DAY6
ANDREW is sitting behind his desk in the library. There are several books open in front of him with post-it note bookmarks in them. He has a document open in front of him and he is making notes in the margin.
COLIN walks in.
COLIN
Dad?
ANDREW
Yes, Colin?
COLIN
Can I watch Guardians of the Galaxy on the big screen, please? I'll put the headphones on.
ANDREW checks his watch.
ANDREW
I'm sorry. I've got two teleconference calls lined up now.
COLIN
Oh. Never mind.
COLIN starts to walk out of the room.
ANDREW
You could watch tonight if you like?
COLIN
Maybe.
COLIN leaves the room.
ANDREW frowns after him, but then his phone beeps and he starts to read the text. He starts work again. COLIN is forgotten for the moment.
CUT TO:
SC61.
EXT. COGHILLS' GARDEN CENTRE - DAY - DAY6
LYLE and LESTER pull up in the parking spaces by the entrance to Coghills' Garden Centre. There are a couple of other cars in. They both get out.
LESTER
I'll only be a few minutes.
LYLE
Okay. Get a good bouquet, mind. I'll pay half!
LESTER
Okay.
LESTER walks into the garden centre. LYLE leans against the car, absently rubbing his thumbs.
CUT TO:
SC62.
INT. KITCHEN - DAY - DAY6
KATY is busy in the kitchen. She has several bowls on the table and something simmering in a saucepan on the hob. She is making notes on a printed recipe. There is a smudge of flour on her temple and in her hair. Whatever she is making, it is not going well.
Katy's phone beeps and she quickly wipes her hands and picks it up to read the message.
COLIN mooches in.
COLIN
Mum?
KATY
Hmm?
COLIN
I'm bored.
KATY lowers her phone enough to look at him.
KATY
I wish I was.
KATY continues tapping out a reply on her phone.
COLIN wanders over to the kitchen table. He reads the recipe and then picks up some dried fruit from the table. He puts a bit in his mouth, glancing to see if his mother has noticed. He saunters across to the stove and knocks a tub of flour on to the floor as he walks past it. It crashes and spills on the floor.
KATY
COLIN!
COLIN
I'm sorry! It just fell off!
KATY is reaching for the dustpan and brush.
KATY
I can see what it did.
KATY hands COLIN the dustpan.
KATY
Here hold this steady.
COLIN tries, but he's not very good at it. The flour spreads further as KATY tries to sweep it up. COLIN tries to help, but only succeeds in knocking the brush out of KATY's hands.
KATY
COLIN! Just go. I'll sort it out. It's OK.
COLIN
I'm sorry.
(beat)
I don't know what to do.
KATY
You have the robots. Or you have your drone. Or you could hang-glide off the stable roof! Quite frankly, I'm not bothered about what you do, just as long as you're not doing it here!
COLIN escapes.
KATY glares after him and then bends to start sweeping up the flour again.
CUT TO:
SC63.
EXT. COGHILLS GARDEN CENTRE - DAY - DAY6
LYLE is still leaning against the car as LESTER walks out of the garden centre. LESTER has the air of a man satisfied with what he has just arranged.
Suddenly LYLE gives a little cry and looks at his hands.
LESTER
What's up?
LYLE
My thumbs. Something's really kicking off.
LESTER
How bad?
LYLE
Something major. I'll phone Mum. You try the ARC.
LYLE pulls out his phone and dials a number. LESTER is doing the same on the other side of the car.
We hear the dialling tone and then it's picked up.
JULIA (O.S.)
Hello, sweetie.
LYLE
Mum! Are you OK?
JULIA (O.S.)
Yes, we're fine. Merry Christmas to you!
LYLE
Are you sure? My thumbs just kicked off big style.
JULIA (O.S.)
Well, if your stepfather sets off that laughing Santa one more time, he's not going to make it to New Year. But otherwise we're absolutely fine here.
LYLE
(doubtful)
Well if you're sure.
JULIA (O.S.)
Really. We're fine. And my thumbs haven't so much as twinged.
LYLE
Okay. You let me know if anything does happen.
JULIA (O.S.)
Of course, sweetie. My love to James.
LYLE
Bye, Mum. Love you.
JULIA (O.S.)
Love you too. Bye.
LYLE presses the disconnect button. On the other side of the car, LESTER is doing much the same thing.
LESTER looks at LYLE and shakes his head.
LESTER
Ryan says it's been a really quiet Christmas. So far not a peep out of the ADD today. He says he'll get Connor to do a sweep of the internet to see if we've missed anything, but he doesn't think so.
LYLE rubs his thumbs.
LYLE
Mum's fine. The ARC's fine. So what does that leave us?
LESTER
Where have we just been?
LYLE
Oh, you're kidding!
LESTER
We're twenty minutes away. We'd better go check.
LESTER and LYLE hurry into the car.
CUT TO:
SC64.
EXT. FRONT DOOR - DAY - DAY6
The front door opens and COLIN walks out. He is carrying his drone. He closes the door carefully behind him. He examines the gardens in front of him considering which way to go. He makes up his mind and heads to his left.
CUT TO:
SC65.
INT. CAR -DAY - DAY6
LYLE is driving. He is in work mode. All concentration and speed. LESTER puts his phone in his lap with an exasperated sigh.
LYLE
What?
LESTER
Straight to voicemail on both their phones.
LYLE
That's not the best sign.
LESTER
I know.
(beat)
How are we going to handle this?
LYLE
Drive up. Say hello. Ask if there's any trouble happening.
LESTER
Feels embarrassing.
LYLE
An old sergeant of mine used to say that it's better to look like an idiot than to actually be an idiot.
LESTER
I suppose so.
LYLE
Put it this way. If we don't go and check and something bad happens how much worse is that
going to make you feel.
LESTER
You're right, of course. But it goes against all my civil service training!
LYLE
(laughing)
I love you, James Lester.
CUT TO:
SC66.
EXT. SUMMER HOUSE - DAY - DAY6
COLIN is flying the drone near the summer house. He is having fun, but he's still not in total control of the drone, which is wobbling in the air quite a bit.
Out of sight of COLIN the GHOST BOY appears on the other side of the summer house. He is looking up at the drone. Suddenly it starts to veer wildly. The GHOST BOY vanishes and the drone crashes into the tree growing out of the summer house.
COLIN
Oh no!
COLIN puts the controller down and walks towards the entrance to the summer house.
CUT TO:
SC67.
INT. CAR - DAY - DAY6
LYLE is driving fast, fully concentrating on the road. LESTER is holding on through the bends by holding the handle above the window. They turn into the gates for Stanton Hall and LESTER is flung to the side.
LESTER
Jesus! Jon!
LYLE says nothing but keeps on driving fast. The house appears in the windscreen and LYLE brakes. We can hear the squeal of the brakes the scatter of the gravel.
LESTER is opening his car door almost before the car has fully stopped.
CUT TO:
EXT. FRONT DRIVE - DAY - DAY6
LESTER is up the front steps before LYLE is properly out of the car. He goes through the door without knocking.
LESTER (O.S.)
Katy! Andrew!
CUT TO:
SC68.
INT. SUMMER HOUSE - DAY - DAY6
COLIN is nearly at the top of the tree. The drone is only a couple of branches above him, but there is no easy way to get to it. He stands on a branch, while holding on to the trunk, and tries to reach the drone. He can't. He moves along the branch until he is just touching the trunk and stretches up. His fingers are just about touching the drone.
He wobbles a bit and looks down. The GHOST BOY is standing on the ground looking straight up into COLIN's eyes.
COLIN starts and loses his balance. He tries to save himself, but he falls from the tree. He lands and then goes through the floor of the summer house. He disappears into the mound beneath.
CUT TO:
