Hi lovelies! ❤️

I usually post this note at the end of a chapter, however since this 'chapter' is different I'm doing it here. 

I'll be sharing the pilot script I wrote for MMIQ -- it was done as a sample script for a contest. It covers the first 5 chapters of MMIQ, so if you haven't read those yet SPOILER ALERT, haha. 

I recommend reading the first 5 chapters first -- there's definitely more details included. :) I've uploaded the script just in case some are interested in reading it, and seeing the slight differences. 

There aren't a lot of differences (definitely nothing that alters the story), but I hope you'll enjoy reading it anyway! It was definitely a very fun challenge for me to write. Let me know how you like it! 

Oh, also in case anyone isn't familiar with screenwriting terms V/O means voice over, O/S means off screen, BEAT is like a short pause. 

Also, I'm still learning screenwriting and am a noob, so don't expect the best script ever, haha. BUT I hope you enjoy it anyway! 

COLD OPEN

FADE IN:

INT. APARTMENT, AIMEE'S BEDROOM -- NIGHT 1

A LAPTOP is open on an otherwise bare desk. On the screen, there's an IMAGE showing the human body's anatomy.

The room is silent, but soon the silence is pierced by the sound of a loud moan.

Next, we see a SHELF against the wall right next to the desk. It's aligned with BOOKS, and a small DNA SCULPTURE, all of which are now shuddering in rhythm with the growing moans.

Suddenly, a FIST slams against the wall.

AIMEE

Fuck!

AIMEE, 20 years young but growing a decade older by the day, is sitting on her bed. Her ash blonde hair is pulled up in a messy bun, her face contorted in utter disgust.

She slams her fist against the wall another TWO TIMES, just for good measure, and lets out a heavy breath.

The moans have temporarily stopped, replaced with silent whispers and giggles coming through the walls, but they soon return in force.

AIMEE

Damn it, he's unbelievable!

Aimee, clearly distraught, tries to collect the notes and papers strewn about her bed.

AIMEE (V/O)

There are more than 90 billion nerves in a human body...

We can glimpse drawings of the human nervous, skeletal and musculatory systems that seem to have been done by hand, along with an anatomy textbook.

AIMEE (V/O)

And my roommate was quickly getting on every single one of mine.

Struggling to keep hold of her study materials, she leaves the room.

INT. APARTMENT, HALLWAY -- NIGHT 1

Shooting a nasty glare to the door next to hers, she makes her way to the living room space, dropping a few papers along the way and bending to pick them up.

She mutters angrily in the process.

INT. APARTMENT, LIVING ROOM -- NIGHT 1

Aimee puts the bundle of books and papers on the coffee table in the living room, and throws herself onto the couch with a frustrated huff.

AIMEE (V/O)

I know what you're thinking... I'm the absolute worst at choosing roommates. You'd think a person could get use to this, especially considering this particular situation was a nightly feature...

Aimee shudders at the memory.

AIMEE (V/O) (CONT'D)

... of which I've regretfully seen more than one episode.

CUT TO:

INT. APARTMENT, AIMEE's bedroom, THE PAST -- NIGHT

Aimee is lying on her bed blasting music, before she's startled by the banging of a bed-frame against the wall in the neighbouring room.

She mutters under her breath and tries to press a pillow against her ears to muffle the noise.

CUT TO:

It's a different evening, and Aimee has learned her lesson. She is fully equipped, headphones firmly placed on her head. Nothing can distract her now.

Until the all-too-familiar sound of loud moaning comes from the next room. Despite the headphone, Aimee can still hear it and her face grimacing in anger.

CUT TO:

Rain falls against the window, a storm is brewing tonight. Surely, that means at least this night Aimee will have some peace.

She's sitting at her desk, trying to write an essay on her laptop, when the sound of a pleasurable scream pierces through the room, making her accidentally key smash. 

With a loud groan, Aimee slams her head against her laptop's keyboard.

INT. APARTMENT, living room -- NIGHT 1

Back in present day, Aimee sitting on the living room couch.

AIMEE (V/O)

Where was cancel culture when you needed it?

ACT ONE

INT. APARTMENT, LIVING ROOM -- NIGHT 1

Aimee takes her notes into her hands, starts reading them over, but within seconds exhales loudly and sets them back down.

Her concentration is gone and she's visibly frustrated by it. She grabs the remote control and turns on the TV.

An attractive female news anchor reports on current events.

FEMALE NEWS ANCHOR

-- on the current FIVID-19 crisis. Germany and UK have announced a nation-wide quarantine as their numbers continue to surge. Experts state that--

Aimee changes the channel, a worried frown crossing her features.

There's a male news anchor now, with the letters BREAKING NEWS visible in the left bottom corner of the screen.

MALE NEWS ANCHOR

-- at the newest press release. His statement was supported by the chief medical expert on the current pandemic, Dr. Blaire Nielsen, stating that we have a plan for preventing the huge death toll that many European countries are now struggling with. The President continued --

Aimee mutes the sound of the TV.

Her fingers twirl around a strand of her hair, a nervous habit she's had since childhood.

AIMEE (V/O)

The recent filovirus outbreak was all the media seemed to talk about. Everyone mentioned some mysterious plan the government had.

Biting down on her lip, Aimee continues flipping through the channels.

AIMEE (V/O) (CONT'D)

But since nothing had actually been set in motion, a lot of people were just acting like headless chicken. Can't say I wasn't worried myself. This filovirus spread much faster than expected.

Giving up on idle channel hopping, Aimee clicks the NETFLIX button on the remote, choosing to escape reality rather than panic about it.

While searching the new releases, she's startled by the loud sound of a door opening and footsteps stomping through the hallway.

An upset REDHEAD WOMAN storms toward the front door, trying to fix her tousled hair.

REDHEAD

You're such an asshole, Maddox!

Her voice shudders as she yells in the direction of the bedrooms, before opening the front door and SLAMMING it behind her.

Aimee jumps a bit at the aggressive sound, her eyebrows furrowing.

A moment later MADDOX, an attractive 23 y/o male with darker skin, emerges from the hallway shirtless and covered in sweat.

He glances in Aimee's direction and shrugs, as if to say "Women, you know?"

Aimee shakes her head disapprovingly, raising one incredulous eyebrow.

AIMEE

I see you've been abusing your Tinder this week.

MADDOX

Oh Aimee, I didn't know you were paying attention.

He wiggles his eyebrows, walking in her direction.

AIMEE

You wish! I just happen to have a front-row seat to your booming porn career. (BEAT) I know you could hear me slamming that wall.

MADDOX

(tapping his chin with his finger)

Hm, I don't know, could I? I was kind of busy slamming something else.

A mocking grin is on his face as he makes his way to the fridge in the open-space kitchen.

Aimee's horrified gaze follows after him.

AIMEE

(shudders) Ugh, ew.

AIMEE (V/O)

Gotta give her credit, that redhead was so right.

Maddox takes out a bottle of cold water, pouring himself a glass and slowly gulping it down. The muscles in his back contract, drops of sweat enhancing how attractive his form really is.

Aimee seems mesmerized for a moment before shaking her head in horror at her own reaction.

AIMEE

You're a savage.

Maddox chuckles, walking back in the direction he came from, but stopping to ruffle Aimee's hair in passing.

MADDOX

Awh, thanks babe.

AIMEE

That wasn't a compliment!

Maddox walks away soundlessly, but his back shakes with obvious laughter.

Aimee, feeling increasingly frustrated by his reaction, stands up abruptly and yells after him.

AIMEE

And don't call me babe!

Loud laughter erupts from the hallway now, before the door to Maddox's bedroom closes, muffling it.

Aimee collapses back onto the couch in a huff, her face red from both anger and embarrassment.

AIMEE (V/O)

Moving in with that man-pig was easily the worst decision of my life. Driven by desperate need and shallow pockets, I didn't care who I'd be forced to live with.

Her mood soured and frustration reaching critical level, Aimee distracts herself by scouring through Netflix again.

AIMEE (V/O) (CONT'D)

We didn't have to be friends, we just had to share a living space, right?Wrong. Maddox and I were polar opposites. He found it amusing, I found it annoying as hell.

A movie starts playing, showing the Netflix logo, and Aimee finds a comfortable position on the couch.

AIMEE (V/O)

Thank God, I had class all day tomorrow.

INT. APARTMENT, AIMEE'S BEDROOM -- DAY 1

In complete darkness, there's the muffled sound of people arguing incoherently.

Aimee opens her eyes, sunlight streaming into her room from a small crack in the curtains.

She stretches, taking a look at her phone that shows it's 8.13 AM. Confused, she gets out of bed and walks out of her room.

INT. APARTMENT, HALLWAY -- DAY 1

As soon as she opens the door of her room, the arguing becomes more clear, and she can see a shirtless Maddox standing at their open front door.

MADDOX

You can't do this! It's a free country, you can't just fuckin' lock us in here for--

POLICE OFFICER (O/S)

Sir, watch your language.

Aimee makes her way to where Maddox is standing, noticing a police officer with a face mask is in front of their apartment, a medium sized box in his arms.

AIMEE

What's going on?

MADDOX

This guy says we're going into lockdown today. (BEAT) For twenty days!

Maddox sounds furious, pointing at the police officer in front of him accusingly.

AIMEE

What, a lockdown, here? In this apartment?

MADDOX

Yeah!

Aimee's eyes widen in panic as her gaze flutters between Maddox and the police officer.

AIMEE

Like, you and me, together?

MADDOX

Who else, genius?

Standing there in shock, Aimee shakes her head silently, clearly still in denial. This situation was literal nightmare fuel for her.

AIMEE

Yeah, no.

MADDOX

What?

His voice sounds frustrated, his gaze staring at Aimee in confusion.

AIMEE

There's no way I'm spending 20 days trapped in this apartment with you.

MADDOX

Oh, and you think I want this princess?

He looks Aimee up and down, frowning, before motioning to her with his hands.

MADDOX (CONT'D)

You're not exactly a fountain of fun.

AIMEE

You know what? I'd rather claw my eyes out than have to look at you all day.

MADDOX

Well, I'd rather catch a virus than be locked up with you!

Both seem a bit taken aback by their aggressive exchange, shooting daggers at each other; the very definition of if looks could kill.

Aimee is the first one to recover.

AIMEE

Great, that's just great. Then your dumb ass can just go do that and problem--

POLICE OFFICER

That's enough! (BEAT) You think I want to be going door-to-door while there's a virus outside? Hell no!

The officer clicks his tongue in annoyance at the bickering pair, having already had more than enough interacting with people, and it wasn't even 8.30 AM.

POLICE OFFICER

Some people don't have the luxury of staying at home, so take your damn box before I arrest you both for disturbing the peace.

The officer pushes the box toward Maddox and he automatically reaches out and takes it, seemingly in shock.

Both of them had forgotten about the man standing in front of their door, and Aimee's cheeks burn in embarrassment.

Once he gives them the box, he starts walking down the hall, pulling a cart with several more boxes behind him, all the while muttering.

POLICE OFFICER

Damn millennials these days, nothin' but disrespect...

Maddox closes the door with his foot, settling the mysterious box on the floor, and the pair stand in awkward silence for a few moments.

MADDOX

You think we should have told him we're Generation Z?

Aimee looks at him, her eyes wide before bursting into laughter. As if a tense bubble had finally burst, Maddox joins in and the atmosphere feels instantly lighter.

After wiping a tear from the corner of her eye, Aimee points to the cardboard box at their feet.

AIMEE

What's that, exactly?

MADDOX

Uh, I was only half paying attention but, it's like, some safety gear or guidelines or something.

He scratches the back of his head as Aimee stares on in disbelief, shaking her head, exasperated.

AIMEE

How do you not pay attention during a time like this?

MADDOX

Well so-rry, Miss Perfect. (BEAT) It was kind of a shock.

Rolling her eyes so hard they almost inverted, Aimee bends down to rip open the mysterious box.

Rummaging inside she sees surgical masks and filters, as well as several disinfectant products and rubber gloves along with a booklet that seems to contain guidelines for how to get through the quarantine.

AIMEE

I have to say while this situation sucks hard, I'm impressed by how organized this is.

MADDOX

Hm, yeah... Almost like they knew what was going to happen...

Aimee lets out a sigh, assuming that he's joking around again.

AIMEE

What are you talking about?

MADDOX

Think about it, how would they have prepared all of this unless they knew what was going to happen? (BEAT) They probably engineered this virus in a lab and are just trying to thin out the population.

AIMEE

Oh yeah, I'm sure they also bio-engineered the Lock Ness Monster and Sasquatch, too.

MADDOX

I mean, it's possible! There's no proof they didn't. Especially if the illuminati are involved, there's no telling what they're capable of.

No longer seeming as if he is joking, Aimee looks at him with wide eyes before managing to compose herself.

AIMEE

You're not... Are you serious?

MADDOX

Yeah! Ever since I found out about the aliens using radio signals for mind control over humans, I've been very passionate about this stuff.

Total shock. That's the only emotion visible on Aimee's face as her brain tries to process what it just heard.

AIMEE (V/O)

No. Fucking. Way.

She opens her mouth once before closing it, all words seeming to fail to express the level of utter horror she is feeling.

AIMEE (V/O)

He was a nut job. A proper nut job. I wasn't even exaggerating anymore. This was now a fact.

She smacks her hand across her lips, staring at him in wide-eyed shock.

AIMEE (V/O)

What else had he been hiding? What if all those screams I heard hadn't been those of pleasure?

Before she can actually say anything, Maddox bursts out laughing, clutching his stomach.

MADDOX

Oh man, I really wanted to keep that going but your face! My God, your face! (BEAT) Ah, I wish I'd taken a picture.

Aimee stares at him, confused about what to believe.

AIMEE

So, you were... joking?

MADDOX

Of course! Wait, did you really think I was serious?

Aimee bites down on her lip, awkwardly looking away.

MADDOX

Oh, my God, you did!

The sound of his laughter increases, tears starting to form in the corner of his eyes. Aimee's shame turns to frustration.

AIMEE

Whatever, okay! It's not like I know you.

Feeling increasingly more awkward by the second, she turns around, eager to escape back to her room.

Before she can take even one step, she feels a hand wrap around her arm, holding her in place.

MADDOX

Sorry.

Mildly confused by this unexpected apology, Aimee tilts her head.

AIMEE

For... what?

MADDOX

For what I said. (BEAT) I prefer you over a virus.

AIMEE

(snorts) Awesome, so glad to hear I could win against such harsh competition.

He lets out a boyish chuckle that brings a smile to Aimee's face -- a smile followed by red cheeks when her eyes drift to the place his hand is still holding.

She wracks her brain for something witty to say next, but the only thing that comes out of her mouth is absolute word vomit.

AIMEE (CONT'D)

I need to pee. (BEAT) In the bathroom.

Maddox's eyebrows raise, an amused smirk popping up.

Finally noticing he's still holding her arm, he nervously lets go.

MADDOX

Here I thought you usually peed on the couch.

Cheeks burning bright red, Aimee spins around, and scurries back to her room.

INT. APARTMENT, AIMEE'S BEDROOM -- DAY 1

After shutting the door, she hears Maddox's muffled voice yell after her, laughter evident in his tone.

MADDOX (O/S)

I thought you had to pee?

Burying her face in her hands, Aimee leans against the door and slides down to the ground. If only it would just open up and swallow her whole - but of course, she's not that lucky.

AIMEE (V/O)

Four-hundred and eighty. (BEAT) I wasn't sure I could keep my sanity while spending four-hundred and eighty hours around him.

Aimee lets out a grunt, pulling her legs closer to her body and leaning her head against her knees.

AIMEE (V/O) (CONT'D)

Considering that number used to be a nice, solid nine during the last three months, this was a nightmare. I had a meticulously designed system for how to minimize the time I'd have to actually spend around Maddox. Not to brag but I'd basically become an avoidance ninja. (BEAT) Until now.

Letting out a tired groan, Aimee rises from her balled up position and sits on the edge of her bed.

It creaks under her weight as she pulls herself across it, and leans her back against the wall.

Grabbing her laptop, she checks her social media and regrets it instantly.

Mindnumbingly dumb posts appeared on her screen.

The playboy from her high school was stating with certainty that the virus was a hoax and likening those who believe in it with farm animals.

A girl she'd met once at a party was going on a tirade about how not being able to get her nails done was a violation of human rights.

AIMEE

Yikes.

Shaking her head, Aimee closes the laptop. That was enough Internet for the day, even though it had just started.

Looking around the room, her eyes focus on her bedroom door.

AIMEE (V/O)

Okay, baby steps. (BEAT) First step, coffee.

Aimee tiptoes to the door, hesitantly leaning her ear against it. Silence. Victory!

With visible excitement she reaches for the door handle, just as her mobile phone starts ringing.

Startled, she fumbles with it, almost dropping it.

Sighing at her own clumsiness, she picks up.

AIMEE

Hello?

INT. APARTMENT, AIMEE'S family homE, KITCHEN -- DAY 1

Aimee's mother, an attractive woman in her late forties, is clutching the phone so hard her knuckles are starting to turn white.

She sweeps her blond hair behind her ear, and lets out a heavy breath before speaking.

MOM

Sweetheart, are you okay? Have you watched the news? Do you know what's happening? (BEAT) Are you okay?

INTERCUT, AIMEE AND MOM

AIMEE

(breathes out in relief)

Mom... I'm okay, it's okay. (BEAT) We had a police officer drop of the box of essentials a little while ago. How are--

Before she can ask her question, a sob rips through the phone.

Aimee holds the phone slightly away from her ear, a compassionate look on her face. Her mother has always been a softy.

MOM

This is just such a horrible situation (in between sobs) and you're all alone in New York!

AIMEE

I'm not alone mom, I have a roommate.

AIMEE (V/O)

Though right now I wished I didn't.

AIMEE

Really, I'm fine, I promise.

MOM

(condescending) What, that boy? He never looked very reliable to me.

AIMEE (V/O)

Oh, how right she was. Not that I would tell her that.

AIMEE

He's a good guy, mom. It's better than being alone.

MOM

I just wish you could be here, with us. I'd feel so much better.

AIMEE

I know... I'll come visit the second this is over, okay? Please, just keep each other safe until then. (PAUSE) Is Amelia there?

MOM

She is, but...(BEAT) Well, she's locked herself in her room and is blasting some foreign boyband music.

AIMEE (V/O)

BTS. My sister basically had a shrine dedicated to them in her room. (BEAT) Actually, her entire room was the shrine.

AIMEE

I'll try calling her but she usually just needs space when she gets like that. (BEAT) Just... tell her to call me when you talk to her.

MOM

Okay, sweetie. Thank you...

Her mother's voice is overtaken by a man yelling in the background.

MOM

I better go now, your dad is yelling at the TV. That never means anything good.

Aimee chuckles, easily able to imagining this familiar scene in her mind. Her heart clenches a bit at the memory.

AIMEE (V/O)

Isn't it odd how we don't really appreciate things until there's a risk of losing them?

AIMEE

Let's talk soon, mom. Okay?

INT. APARTMENT, HALLWAY -- DAY 1

After confirming the coast was still clear, Aimee exits her room with a bright smile and makes her way to the kitchen.

The door to Maddox's room is slightly ajar, and his voice rings out through the crack.

MADDOX (O/S)

Yeah man, I hear ya'! This just ain't right, it has to be illegal or something. Yeah, they can't just do this to us! I'm down for a protest.

Aimee freezes in place for a second, wishing she hadn't heard that last part.

AIMEE (V/O)

A protest during a time like this?! That seemed like a bit much, even for him. I mean, it's not like I knew him...

Aimee bites her lower lip, throwing a quick glance behind her.

AIMEE (V/O)

But even so...

Turning back around, Aimee notices the box they received, still in the same spot.

Letting out a frustrated huff, she picks up the box, staggering slightly at the unexpected weight.

INT. APARTMENT, LIVING ROOM -- DAY 1

She sets it down next to the couch, and scours for a place to store everything.

Finally settling on the living room cupboard, she clears out two of the drawers, mainly filled with papers and garbage.

She puts the booklet on the living room coffee table, takes out the packaged safety gear and disinfectant and places them neatly into the drawers.

Once done, she throws herself onto the couch with a loud sigh.

Taking the booklet, she reads through the provided information, nodding in approval.

It has details on how to go grocery shopping, volunteer to purchase food for the elderly and even information on FIVID-19, and the symptoms of infection.

MADDOX

(whispers into her ear) What does it say?

Aimee jumps in surprise, turning around just long enough to push him away and shoot him a nasty glare. He chuckles in amusement, rounding the couch to sit down next to her.

MADDOX

Anything useful?

AIMEE

Not for an idiot like you.

MADDOX

(raises his arms) Whoa! What did I do now?

Her mouth opens, a torrent of fury threatening to surface, but she closes it before even a word can be uttered.

Looking away, she frowns.

AIMEE (V/O)

I didn't particularly want him to know I was eavesdropping.

AIMEE

Nothing.

MADDOX

Come on, tell me.

He nudges Aimee with his shoulder, making her flinch and move herself to the edge of the couch.

MADDOX

Look, we're gonna have to start talking now that we're stuck here together.

AIMEE

(hesitant) You have a very loud voice.

Maddox frowns in confusion, motioning for her to continue.

Aimee sighs, crossing her arms over her chest.

AIMEE

I... overheard a part of that super intelligent phone conversation you were having.

MADDOX

Oh! And that, what, upset you?

He lets out a dark chuckle, his attitude changing abruptly.

MADDOX (CONT'D)

You should be upset at our government for limiting our freedom like this!

AIMEE

Yeah, see, exactly. This is exactly why you're an idiot. A selfish idiot!

Rage bubbles inside of her, that torrent of fury she'd halted now spilling out.

AIMEE (CONT'D)

You think they made this decision lightly? It was probably a last case scenario, to avoid hundreds of thousands, if not millions of deaths! And what do you want to do? Start a freaking protest. (BEAT) Bravo, Maddox, so valiant of you.

For a barely noticeable moment, a flash of hurt sparks across Maddox's face, but is quickly replaced by annoyance.

He clicks his tongue, looking away from her.

MADDOX

You didn't have to put it like that. I just don't think it's fair that--

AIMEE

Fair?! Well, life isn't fair! People are still going to die because of this virus, even with the quarantine. You think that's fair?

Swept up in her self-righteous rage, Aimee stands up from the couch, glaring down at Maddox.

Taking it as a challenge, he rises as well, moving in close and towering over her.

MADDOX

You don't get it, this doesn't change shit for you. All you do is study, you're probably glad no one else gets to have any fun now, right? (BEAT) It's not like you actually have a life outside of your room.

As soon as the words were out, regret fills Maddox's eyes but it's too little, too late. The damage has been done, evident by the way Aimee's lip quivers before she manages to steel herself.

AIMEE

Wow.

That's all she says, before turning around and walking to her room.

Maddox looks down at the floor, rubbing his nape with his hand.

MADDOX

Shit...

AIMEE (V/O)

Yeah. Things were going just swimmingly.

ACT TWO

INT. APARTMENT, AIMEE'S BEDROOM -- DAY 1

Aimee sprawls across her bed, looking at cute videos on her phone, trying to improve her sour mood and failing.

INT. APARTMENT, HALLWAY -- DAY 1

Maddox paces in front of Aimee's room, raising his hand to knock before lowering it, and clenching his fist.

He lets out a sigh, moving away from her door and closer to his.

Throwing a forlorn gaze at his roommate's closed door, he shakes his head and walks into his room.

INT. APARTMENT, AIMEE'S BEDROOM -- NIGHT 2

Aimee lies on her bed, looking up at the ceiling.

Soundless tears fall down her cheek. She doesn't bother wiping them. It's been a very long day, and she's ready for it to end. A part of her hopes she might wake up in the morning and things would go back to normal.

INT. APARTMENT, MADDOX's BEDROOM -- NIGHT 2

Maddox's frame takes up the entire space of his queen sized bed, legs and arms spread apart.

His gaze is intently focused on the ceiling, before he lets out a sigh and covers his eyes with his right forearm.

INT. APARTMENT, KITCHEN -- DAY 2

Aimee is making an omelet in the kitchen, discarded egg shells visible on the counter.

Maddox walks to the fridge, opens it, and looks inside for a few second, stealing glances in Aimee's direction.

He closes the fridge and walks away.

AIMEE (V/O)

Saying that the situation was tense, would be putting it mildly.

Maddox comes back, opening the fridge up again, and repeating the same behaviour.

AIMEE (V/O)

This was the seventh time he'd opened the fridge.

Aimee clicks her tongue, abandoning her eggs long enough to walk to the fridge and close it.

AIMEE

Can you please stop doing that?

MADDOX

Oh, yeah, sorry.

He scratches the back of his head, shuffling awkwardly on his feet.

Aimee goes back to cooking, avoiding Maddox's gaze.

He lets out a heavy breath, and then another when the first gets no reaction.

Realising that he could exhale his soul without even getting a glance from Aimee, he reluctantly speaks.

MADDOX

Uh, look, can we talk about yesterday?

Tension immediately settles into Aimee's shoulders. Her focus stays on her eggs as if her life depended on a perfect omelet.

AIMEE

What's there to talk about? I think everything has been said.

Before Maddox can reply, she raises her hand to silence him.

AIMEE (CONT'D)

The conclusion was that you're a moron.

Maddox clicks his tongue, crossing his arms over his chest.

MADDOX

Hey, just because we have a difference of opinion, doesn't make me a moron.

At that point, Aimee's focus is anywhere but on her eggs, and she spins around to finally face him.

AIMEE

No, what makes you a moron is that your "opinion" could hurt a lot of innocent people, and you don't seem to care!

There is a moment of clear tension, sparks flying between them. Even when Aimee's cheeks start turning slightly red she refuses to look away.

Maddox is the first one to move his gaze, rubbing his nape again nervously.

MADDOX

That's... not true. I just don't think things are as simple as you make them out to be.

Aimee takes a few deep breaths to calm down and stop herself from yelling.

AIMEE

I never said things were simple. I just said we have to follow the rules that have been set out to avoid a crisis.

MADDOX

Well, have you considered the crisis this will cause for people's jobs? This quarantine is horrible for the economy.

Maddox seems so sure of himself, and Aimee's anger starts flaring up again. Even so, she somehow manages to keep her tone level.

AIMEE

Mhm, mhm. You know what's even worse for the economy though? (BEAT) Dead people.

MADDOX

Fuck, Aimee...

Taken aback by her harsh words, Maddox runs a hand through his hair.

MADDOX (CONT'D)

Anyone ever tell you, you're kind of intense?

AIMEE

Anyone ever tell you, you're kind of a jerk?

MADDOX

Yup, sure did.

His reply is so instant, Aimee's eyes widen.

Before she can say anything, the smell of burning eggs envelops them and she curses under her breath, rushing to quickly salvage her food.

There is silence for a few short moments.

Maddox sighs, taking a few steps closer to Aimee.

MADDOX

Hey, can we just... Can we just have a truce? I really don't want to spend the next three weeks arguing constantly.

Aimee glances at him, surprised at his words and trying to gouge their sincerity.

Maddox offers a small smile, seemingly genuine, but Aimee still isn't convinced.

MADDOX (CONT'D)

Please? I'm real sorry for how I acted yesterday. And for what I said. It wasn't fair to you. Just... a lot of shit happened, and I guess I was at my limit.

His voice sounds so sweet that her determination is starting to waver.

AIMEE

(mutters) You know all that shit happened to me too.

MADDOX

I know, that's why I'm apologizing for taking it out on you.

He holds out his hand toward Aimee, a crooked smile on his face.

MADDOX (CONT'D)

Truce?

Aimee stares at his hand for a few moments as if it was going to suddenly transform into some Lovecraftian tentacle creature before raising her eyes to meet his.

He looks at her, hopeful, and she finally caves.

AIMEE

Fine. Truce.

She shakes Maddox's hand and the smile beaming on his face makes her look away awkwardly.

AIMEE (CONT'D)

But, there will be rules.

He chuckles, shaking his head.

MADDOX

I should have expected that. Yeah, that's fine.

It kind of annoys her that he seems to be so okay with everything, so she crosses her arms and raises one eyebrow.

AIMEE

Also, we're supposed to go grocery shopping twice a week. Only one of us can go at a time though, and--

She pokes his chest with her index finger.

AIMEE (CONT'D)

--you're going first.

CUT TO:

INT. APARTMENT, LIVING ROOM -- DAY 2

Maddox and Aimee are facing each other, deadly serious expressions on their faces'. It looks almost like an old Western standoff.

Abruptly, Aimee hands him a respirator mask and rubber gloves.

Maddox whines, eyes full of disappointment.

Aimee chuckles, not even feeling guilty for enjoying his clear distaste of the situation.

MADDOX

Is this seriously necessary?

Maddox reverts back to his twelve year old self, pouting in protest.

He takes the gloves, pulling on one of the rubber fingers and letting it snap back.

MADDOX

My hands get really sweaty in those.

AIMEE

You'll just have to be a big boy and suck it up.

Aimee pats his head, cheerfully, and Maddox pulls his head away in annoyance.

Aimee chuckles, turning toward the coffee table, and grabs the list of groceries she'd written out earlier.

AIMEE

So, what are you supposed to buy?

MADDOX

(mutters) Everything on the list.

His response sounds rehearsed. It clearly isn't the first time they've had this conversation.

AIMEE

And what are you NOT supposed to buy?

MADDOX

Anything not on the list.

AIMEE

Good boy!

Maddox groans, glaring at Aimee.

MADDOX

You know, I'm not a child.

Aimee shrugs, growing more amused by the second.

AIMEE

Could've fooled me. (BEAT) Oh, and remember to keep at least six feet between you and other people.

Maddox sighs in resignation, and puts on the gloves, his face full of disgust as the silicone wraps around his hands.

MADDOX

Yeah, yeah, yeah...

He turns around and walks to the front door. Aimee looks after him, a satisfied smirk on her lips.

MADDOX

See ya' later.

He mutters before exiting the apartment.

Aimee walks back to the couch with a skip in her step.

INT. APARTMENT, KITCHEN -- DAY 2

Maddox drops the three grocery bags on the floor with a huff, eagerly taking off the sweaty silicone gloves.

Aimee bends down to rummage through the grocery bags, her features instantly darkening.

AIMEE

Why... do we have eight bags of Cheetos?

MADDOX

I, uh, I just had like a sudden craving for Cheetos, you know?

AIMEE

(mutters) What are you, a pregnant woman?

Maddox grins, raising one eyebrow at her remark.

MADDOX

Funny.

Aimee continues rummaging though the bags and lets out a frustrated grunt.

AIMEE

Are you insane?! What even is all of this?

She pulls out a four pound bag of some powdery substance, angrily waving it in Maddox's face.

MADDOX

Oh, that's a protein shake mix. It was discounted.

AIMEE

What the hell are you gonna do with a protein shake during a quarantine?! (BEAT) I'm pretty sure we don't have a benchpress in the apartment.

His lips form into a little O shape. The thought that the gyms would also be closed clearly didn't occur to him before.

Aimee sighs again, pulling out not one, not two, but three six-packs of beer and putting them on the counter.

AIMEE

Seriously?!

MADDOX

What? It's been, man! (BEAT) If you don't day-drink during a quarantine, you're not doing it right.

Pinching the bridge of her nose, Aimee can feel the onset of a headache.

AIMEE

(through clenched teeth) What happened to the list?

MADDOX

Ah... Well--

Maddox grimaces, scratching the top of his head.

MADDOX (CONT'D)

--I kind of lost it. I remembered some stuff though!

Shaking her head, Aimee starts taking out the purchased items. Eggs. Milk. Cereal. Meat. Potatoes. Frozen pizza. Frozen veggies. It was a semi-decent haul.

AIMEE

Alright, it's not horrible, I guess.

Maddox grins, showing off his perfectly white teeth, and Aimee looks away quickly.

Her gaze scours his surroundings, frowning when she doesn't locate what she's looking for.

AIMEE

Where did you put the toilet paper?

Aimee looks up at him.

Instantly, Maddox's lips press tightly together, eyes wide and apologetic.

AIMEE

... Please tell me you bought toilet paper. We literally have half a roll left.

MADDOX

Shit.

He lets out a frustrated groan.

AIMEE (V/O)

Four pounds of protein shake and not a single bag of toilet paper. I swear, only Maddox could do this.

AIMEE

Seriously, Maddox. How can you forget such a basic thing, even without a list?

MADDOX

I'm sorry, okay? What do you want me to do now--

Maddox's puppy dog face instantly crumples when Aimee interrupts him, pointing at the front door with her index finger.

His gaze shifts between her face, her finger, and their front door, several times before he whines in desperation.

MADDOX

You can't be serious? I just got home, and my hands were so sweaty, and I just really don't want to--

Aimee continues staring at him, one resolute eyebrow raised, her finger still pointing at the door.

A tense moment of silence ensues.

Maddox exhales in defeat and curses under his breath.

MADDOX

Fine! I'm going.

Aimee stands in the kitchen, trying to keep a smile from her face while Maddox leaves goes the living room.

There's the sound of aggressive cupboard opening, and rubber gloves slapping against skin, followed by incoherent cursing.

The front door opens and closes, and Aimee shakes her head, a smirk on her face.

CUT TO:

INT. APARTMENT, HALLWAY, front door -- DAY 2

Maddox bursts into the apartment, breathing heavily under his mask.

He takes it off with a quick motion and presses his palms against his knees while catching his breath.

INT. APARTMENT, LIVING ROOM -- DAY 2

Aimee jumps from the couch, startled by Maddox's sudden entrance.

Worry creases her brows as she takes hesitant steps toward him.

INT. APARTMENT, HALLWAY -- DAY 2

Maddox takes off the latex gloves, shaking his head.

AIMEE

What happened?

MADDOX

We have a big problem?

AIMEE

(impatiently) What? What is it?

MADDOX

We're out of toilet paper.

Aimee clicks her tongue.

AIMEE

Yeah, we are. That's why you went out to get some.

Maddox shakes his head vigorously.

MADDOX

No, the stores! The stores are out of toilet paper.

Aimee's eyes grow wide as realization sets in.

AIMEE

Did-Did you check a different store? Maybe it was just--

MADDOX

I checked four different stores, and there was no toilet paper in any of them.

AIMEE (V/O)

Well, fuck.

AIMEE (V/O)

Day one of quarantine was going to be a shitfest. Literally.

The two stare at each other in horror.

FADE OUT.