05x11 - Second Thoughts

[bunniefuu]

I am sick and tired

of doing these cute little

d*ck and Jane stories.

I have brains, I have talent.

All I want

is a chance to use them.

If we're not

working together

it'll make some things

a lot less complicated.

And..

...we can spend a lot of that

less complicated time together.

Joannie is one of the most

sensible people I know.

I'm sure she'll find a way

to work it out.

Hi. Jeff and I

are getting married.

["Eight Is Enough"]

♪ There's a magic in the early

morning we've found ♪

♪ When the sunrise smiles ♪

♪ On everything around ♪

♪ It's a portrait

of the happiness ♪

♪ That we feel

and always will ♪

♪ For eight is enough ♪

♪ To fill our lives with love ♪

♪ Oh we spend our days ♪

♪ Like bright

and shiny new dimes ♪

♪ If we're ever puzzled ♪

♪ By the changing times ♪

♪ There's a plate

of homemade wishes ♪

♪ On the kitchen windowsill ♪

♪ And eight is enough ♪

♪ To fill our lives with love ♪♪

(Nancy)

'I found it!

I found it.'

(Mary)

'I didn't even know

it was lost.'

(Elizabeth)

What did you find?

The latest issue

of "BeeKeepers Digest."

I had to go to

every newsstand in town

but I found it.

Does that mean you're

gonna become a beekeeper?

No, it means

I'm gonna be famous.

Yeah, as the first person

to ever buy a copy

of "BeeKeepers Digest."

Do you remember that print ad

I did for Sunshine Soda?

Well, it just came out.

Oh, this is exciting.

Now, let's see,

which one is you?

Oh, come on, dad,

you mean you can't recognize

your own daughter?

Oh, yes, of course I can.

I was just kidding.

Uh, uh, isn't that

you in the purple?

No, this is her,

right here in the sunglasses.

Nancy, there's only one left.

- The one with the moustache?

- It's a shadow.

Oh, well, we can tell

it's a shadow.

He was just lookin' at it weird.

Imagine, my own daughter,

immortalized

in the pages

of "The BeeKeepers Digest."

'I mean, who'd have

ever thought.'

Yeah, well, better be careful

if you go out today.

Why?

Don't you realize

what this means?

Every beekeeper in Sacramento

is gonna recognize you.

[instrumental music]

(Jeffrey)

A talking squirrel?

- As in a squirrel that talks?

- Yes.

- Well, not exactly.

- Uh-huh?

- But almost.

- An almost talking squirrel.

Maybe we could find

an almost flying horse

we could do

a double feature.

I'm serious, Jeff.

Mr. Koppel wants me

to do a story

about a couple that adopts

a little baby squirrel

and teaches it to communicate

with them through signals.

Why don't we wait until

it learns how to sing and dance?

We can do a variety act.

Honey, I'm sorry,

I didn't think

you were taking this

so seriously.

Did you tell him

any of your story ideas?

- I tried.

- What'd he say?

The same thing that he said

the last three times

that I asked him, to please

let me do a serious story.

"You're not ready?"

I am so tired

of this, Jeffrey.

How am I ever going

to get anywhere

if he never

gives me a chance?

Listen, couldn't you say

something to him?

I-I mean, you can

tell him that you think

I'm ready for heavier stuff.

- I can't do that.

- Why not?

Because Koppel is probably

aware that you and I

are rather fond of each other.

How's it gonna look if

I start fighting your battles?

Yeah, you're right.

Besides, if you feel

you're being treated unfairly

you're the one

who's got to tell him.

- You're right again.

- Good.

That's exactly

what I'm going to do.

Good luck.

Tommy.

Tommy. Boy, am I glad

you're here.

Why shouldn't I be, Henry?

Rehearsal was an hour ago.

Rehearsal?

Oops.

How could you forget

about a rehearsal

in your own basement?

I guess I just got so excited

over what happened.

- Wait'll I tell ya!

- Well, let me tell you.

If you're gonna play

in this band, the first rule is

is that

you take rehearsal seriously.

Tommy, will you

let me finish?

I just met this guy who plays

warm up for Jethro Tull.

They're having this concert

here in two weeks. Guess what?

This guys says

he can get us backstage.

And maybe he can get somebody to

listen to a tape of our stuff.

You're kiddin'!

We're going backstage?

Henry, I take back everything

I ever said about you.

- Where's my ticket?

- Ticket?

The concert's been sold out

for a week.

You did ask the guy

for tickets?

Oops.

Joannie, you will have a chance.

- It takes time.

- How much time?

I'm sick and tired

of doing these cute little

d*ck and Jane stories.

Mr. Koppel, I have brains,

I have talent.

All I want is a chance

to use them.

Joannie, it is not that

I doubt your potential.

But my first responsibility

is to the show.

And I don't think you have the

experience to handle hard news.

Or serious,

investigative reporting.

I am not asking

for anything like that.

I-I'll work up to that.

I just want a chance

to do something

that I can take seriously.

Joannie, I sympathize

with your frustration.

But there is only

so much I can do.

Now, I'm sure

you understand.

No, Mr. Koppel,

I don't understand at all.

[instrumental music]

[door slams]

I don't think either

of you realize

what it would do

to my image

if anyone I know

saw me grocery shopping.

Oh, Nancy, Susan

wanted us to pick up

some disposable diapers

for Sandra Sue.

Jeremy, could you go get--

Uh, Nancy, I already

got your dad's prune juice

and Nicholas' sugar puffies.

A guy's gotta

draw the line somewhere.

Oh, listen, you two go get

in line and I'll go get them.

Okay. Okay.

Uh, Nancy, why don't you

come look at this?

What?

[instrumental music]

Don't take it so hard,

you gave it your best sh*t.

Yeah, well, lately my best sh*t

isn't worth very much.

Hey, listen, come here.

Wait a minute.

Sooner or later Koppel is

gonna come to his senses

and realize he's been sitting

on a gold mine.

I doubt it.

I hope you're right.

Anyways, I'm sorry

I had to dump all this on you.

- I..

- Nonsense.

I want you to feel free to come

cry on my shoulder anytime.

[clears throat]

I don't wanna cause

an office scandal.

You'll just have to

consider yourself hugged.

Okay.

- Got a great idea though.

- What?

Why don't we go out

for dinner?

Afterwards you can get

the real thing.

Sounds nice.

Might even cheer you up

a little.

Hmm, probably not.

Might make being depressed

more fun.

- Right.

- Bye.

[sighs]

It's just a hunch, but

are you upset about something?

My feet are aching,

my career is deteriorating

and I'm questioning

the meaning of life.

Well, at least

it's nothing serious.

I have been all over town

looking for a ticket

to the Jethro Tull concert.

- No luck, huh?

- Are you kidding?

The few tickets

that are left are being sold

by scalpers for bucks a sh*t

and those are the bad seats.

I haven't gotta prayer.

Why don't you just buy one

of their albums and turn it up

real loud?

Just trying to help.

- I'm depressed.

- Line forms to the right.

Hey, what's wrong?

Well, me and Melvin entered

a contest at the drug store.

You know, one of those

"Guess, how many

jelly beans are in the jar?"

And I won.

So why does that depress you?

Well, I thought

it was gonna be a great prize.

You know, something like,

free milkshakes

for the rest of my life.

So what was the prize?

Oh, some ticket

to a rock concert.

Jethro Tull?

Oh gosh,

that's rough, Nicholas.

I'm working on the squirrel

story right now, Mr. Koppel.

Yes, I'll call you as soon

as it's done, alright? Bye.

Let's see, Bradford.

You better get a move on.

They want you at the zoo

at : with a minute count.

The zoo?

Yeah, they're getting

a new hippo.

A new hippo?

Why, the old one

go out of style?

- It d*ed.

- Oh, I'm sorry.

I didn't mean to be glib, I..

I'm just not having

a terrific day.

I can't believe it.

After everything I've been

through today.

I gotta go cover a story

about a dying hippo.

Listen, don't take it so hard.

I hear he went in his sleep.

(Nancy)

'Well, I knew they were planning

to use me in the campaign'

but I had no idea the campaign

was gonna be so big.

Did you call the ad agency?

Yeah, and they said I'm gonna be

in every ad for Sunshine Soda.

'In newspapers, magazines,

posters. Everything.'

- That's great.

- I'm gonna be famous.

- I'm gonna be a celebrity.

- I'm gonna be sick.

(Abby)

'Jeremy.'

Don't worry,

I'll leave the room first.

What Jeremy is trying to say

in his own crude fashion

is that we're all

very proud of you.

That's quite an accomplishment

for your short time

in this business.

Maybe it's destiny.

Oh, yeah,

today "BeeKeepers Digest"

tomorrow the world.

Do I detect a slight degree

of jealousy?

Alright, I admit it.

I do feel threatened

by any woman

who looks good

in a moustache.

- Hi, Joannie.

- Hmm, hi.

Hey, Joannie, wait'll you hear,

Nancy's gonna be a celebrity.

Yeah, sit down,

we'll fill you in during dinner.

No, thanks.

[instrumental music]

Excuse me.

Besides the fact that Sandra Sue

could cover this story

'how many people

in Sacramento really care'

if the hippo is happy

in his new home?

Oh, Abby.

I feel like

I'm playing games

while my whole life's

passing me by.

Joannie, you have to

have patience.

It takes time

to build a career.

I know.

But I'm so tired of being

on my way to being something.

You know, even if

I make it eventually

I can't stand feeling

so worthless right now.

I know how you feel.

I used to go through

the same thing myself.

Yeah?

[sighs]

What do you suggest?

You should take a vacation,

just take a little time away.

No. I'm not gonna solve anything

by running away from it.

I'm not saying run away.

I'm saying just stand back a

little, get a fresh perspective.

You can take a little time

for yourself.

Listen, I bet

if you got some rest

you're gonna feel

like a brand new person.

Yeah, maybe you're right.

Maybe that's exactly

what I need.

I could talk to Jeff

about it at dinner.

See how I should go about it.

Yeah.

(Jeff)

I think it's a terrific idea.

Besides, there's a dozen

other reporters

dying to get their hands

on the hippo story.

- Oh, Jeffrey, I'm serious.

- I know.

I need some time to think.

I don't know

how much time either.

Don't worry about it.

I'll juggle some schedules.

Things may get a little hectic.

But this is important.

I don't want you to come back

till you feel ready.

[chuckles]

If I ever do.

I keep thinking, you know

if I don't want

this job bad enough

to put up with all the garbage

that goes with it

maybe I just don't want it

bad enough at all.

[sighs]

Oh, I'm having

an existential crisis.

Hey, don't worry about it.

[indistinct]

You know something,

you're completely overlooking

the positive side of it.

Oh, what's that?

Well, if we're not

working together..

...it'll make some things

a lot less complicated.

- Yeah.

- Uh-huh.

And...we can spend a lot

of that less complicated

time together.

[instrumental music]

(Tommy)

'Look, what's the problem?'

'You said you didn't

want the ticket anyway.'

- That was before.

- Before what?

Before you wanted it.

See, I learned all about this

in Mrs. Roger's class.

Learned about what?

Business, you know,

supply and demand?

See, the more

someone wants something

the more it's worth

to who ever has it.

Well, I got news

for you, Nicholas.

There's a flaw

in your theory.

The supply can only be worth

what the demand has to give.

Huh?

What I mean is,

is if I had any money

I wouldn't need yours,

I'd just buy my own.

Oh.

Besides, I really didn't

want the ticket that badly.

But I figured, since I didn't

have any money to buy a ticket

and you had a ticket

that you didn't want

we could do each other a favor,

and I'd take it off your hands.

But if you're not interested

it's not that big a deal.

I don't care.

Okay.

Oh, and, uh, besides

Kenny P. Landers says

his brother will pay a lot

of money for this ticket.

Nicholas, come back here.

[knock on door]

(Nancy)

'I'll get it.'

- Hello.

- Yeah.

I'm looking for

a Nancy Bradford.

Well, you're in lucky,

you found one.

You're the Sunshine girl?

I guess, you do a lot

with makeup, huh?

Can I help you?

Oh, yeah, I-I brought this stuff

from the Sunshine offices.

Thought you might like

to look through it.

What is it?

Letters mostly.

There's a few small packages.

Who from?

From your fans,

who else?

Fans? I have fans?

[giggles]

People are writing to me?

Do you believe it?

Frankly...no.

I guess it's then

the blue and the red.

What do you think?

- Which one do you like?

- I like the blue.

But Jeff hates it.

Well, does Jeff

like the red one?

Yeah, but I hate it.

- Oh.

- Yuck.

Oh, you know, I forgot.

Yes, yes.

This one.. What do you think?

It's perfect.

You both like it?

No, we both hate it,

but it's impartial.

- That's good.

- Yeah.

- Okay, are you alright?

- Hmm? Oh, yeah, I'm fine.

No major problem?

No, except that I forgot

I lent Elizabeth the shoes

I was gonna wear.

Hey, listen, it's okay if you

don't wanna talk about it.

Talk about what?

Your problems

with your job and everything.

Oh, that problem.

Oh, I'm just having

so much fun with Jeff

I don't have the time

to think about it.

So you don't have any plans

to go back anytime soon?

I don't think so.

Not yet.

This break's the best thing

that's ever happened to me.

I've got you to

thank for it too.

Excuse me.

[instrumental music]

(Elizabeth)

So far you've gotten

proposals.

And one was even for marriage.

I can't believe this, guys

want to take you to Europe

'and one guy wants

to take you to Pittsburg.'

- What's in Pittsburg?

- His mother.

He sent her your picture

and told her

you two were engaged.

Are you kidding?

Nancy, you gonna have

to get used to it.

There's an awful lot

of weirdos out there.

Yeah, look, when you're

in the public eye

the people seem to think

that they own your life.

Oh, I don't mind,

I think it's kind of fun.

(Elizabeth)

Well, this is a sweet one.

This guys says

that you're the most

beautiful woman he's ever seen.

Yeah, you see,

it's just like Mary said.

There're a lot of weirdos

out there.

[all laughing]

Hi, honey, I'm home.

Where's little Ricky?

[laughs]

Oh, you! Hi.

Oh, wherever he is,

I hope he stays there.

Dinner will be ready

in a few minutes.

- I don't care.

- Well, you better care.

You're gonna give me the

"I slaved all day over

a hot stove routine"

Bradford."

You're becoming

incredibly domestic.

- I know. Isn't it great?

- Alright, who are you?

What have you done

with the real Joannie Bradford?

I'm serious, Jeffrey.

I wouldn't have

believed it myself.

But this is not that bad.

Come here,

see what I've done.

- Hey.

- Isn't it pretty?

Roses, candlelight..

Oh, you know,

my biggest problem all day

was to decide whether

you wanted mash potatoes

or stuffing

with your meatloaf.

- What do you want?

- I can't believe you said that.

Oh, don't make fun of me.

Alright, either one

will be fine, really.

All I care about in the entire

world...is being here with you.

Me too.

[instrumental music]

It's just a figure of speech,

I can't be your sl*ve for life.

- You want the ticket?

- 'Yeah, but--'

Then it's settled,

you do everything I say.

For the rest of my life?

Well, I'll be nice.

How about just from now

until the concert?

- I guess I can do that.

- And it's a deal?

Alright, it's a deal.

Tommy, Mrs. Rogers says

you shouldn't shake

on real business deals.

What do you wanna do?

Draw up a contract?

Hey, that's a good idea.

Oh, and while I'm drawing up

the contract

you can get started

by doing my homework.

It's a term paper

on reptiles.

But I don't know anything

about reptiles.

That's okay. That's what

all these books are for.

Have a good time.

This is gonna be

one long week.

[instrumental music]

(Jeffrey)

'That was a wonderful dinner,

Bradford.'

[Joannie chuckles]

- Jeffrey.

- Hmm?

Do you think we've known

each other long enough

that you could call me

by my first name?

[laughs]

Allow me my affectations.

It's all part of my spellbinding

wit and devastating charm.

- Not to mention your humility.

- That too.

[laughs]

- This is so nice.

- What?

Everything.

Being here with you,

this entire week.

Spending all this time together

without worrying

every five minutes of how

getting too involved with you

would complicate

our professional lives.

You don't have to tell me

the symptoms.

I'm suffering

from the same illness.

- You think we found a cure?

- Possibly.

Maybe even a permanent cure?

[music continues]

This conversation is

beginning to sound familiar.

I know.

Every time we had it before

it never ended the way I wanted.

So I thought

I'd give it another sh*t.

[chuckles]

What makes you think it'll be

different this time?

Because...before your excuse

was always your career.

The way things have been going..

...at least I can

get us a new excuse.

[chuckles]

Think about it.

[music continues]

Nancy, I really

don't wanna go here.

This place serves

the worst pizza in town.

Come on, Elizabeth,

it'll be fun. I'm starving.

[instrumental music]

Elizabeth, look.

I don't believe it.

Let's see, what should we have?

- Want some pizza?

- I guess.

What will it be?

Um, medium-sized,

pepperoni pizza

and two glasses

of Sunshine Soda.

- Anything else?

- 'Uh, no.'

But could we please

have our drinks right away?

I really love Sunshine Soda.

Two Sunshine Sodas coming up.

Um, you know..

ever since I discovered

Sunshine Soda

'I think it's the best thing

that's ever happened to me.'

Honey, I'm real happy for you.

Nancy, what are you doing?

Well, I wanted her

to take a look at me.

Oh, I know you're gonna think

this is strange, but..

...all my life

I had this fantasy

what it would be like

to be famous, you know?

And have strangers

recognize me.

You think it's weird.

Well, Nancy, it's not weird.

You just gotta be

more subtle, I think.

Okay.

Oh, excuse me, but, uh,

doesn't this face look familiar?

- Subtle.

- Well, yeah.

But I don't know why.

[music continues]

You're the Sunshine Soda girl?

Well, isn't that the darndest

thing? Me meeting you.

Well, I do a little

modeling myself.

My husband's

a professional photographer.

Sort of,

except he's not very good.

Actually, he's lousy.

'Well, the problem is

I just haven't been able'

'to meet

the right people, you know.'

Get the right contacts.

Hey! Maybe you could help me.

I've got some pictures

in the back.

It would just take me

a second to get them.

Just hold on, okay?

Just a second.

I'll be right back.

[laughing]

Abby, I don't think the problem

is nearly as serious

as you make it out to be.

Yeah, have you talked

to her lately?

I haven't seen her lately.

Well, that's exactly

what I mean.

She's always either

with Jeff

or she's at his apartment,

waiting for him.

Yeah, well,

that's normal, isn't it?

I mean, she's just excited

about being in love.

Yeah, and I think

that's terrific

but she can't use that

to escape

all of her other

frustrations, I mean..

Look, it is very

difficult to balance

a career and a relationship.

Joannie's had

no experience with that.

Joannie is one of the most

sensible people I know.

I'm sure she'll find a way

to work it out.

[knock on door]

Come in.

Hi!

I'm-I'm sorry to bother

you so late.

But I couldn't wait till

morning to tell you the news.

(Abby)

'What news?'

Jeff and I are gettin' married.

Oh!

[dramatic music]

[instrumental music]

[knock on door]

(Abby)

'Come in.'

Abby, can I borrow

that brown sweater

that goes so good with this?

Sure, it's on the

top shelf of the closet.

Okay, thanks.

What are you gettin'

all gushied up for?

Oh, not gushy, exactly.

I'm going out to lunch

with Jeff though.

You sure don't mind

if I borrow this?

- No, go ahead.

- Great.

- Joannie.

- Yeah?

- Never mind.

- No, what is it?

No, it's not important, really.

Oh, Abby, you have your

guidance counselor look on.

I'd know it anywhere.

You're about to give me

your, uh..

"I don't wanna interfere, but

I'm worried about you" speech.

Well, it's because

I don't wanna interfere

but I'm worried about you.

Well, there is no reason

to worry. I'm fine.

Joannie, do you remember the

other night when you said that..

You said that you couldn't

solve your problems

by runnin' away from them.

You think that's what I'm doing?

Look, Joannie, I know

how important

your relationship with Jeff is.

But...but, your career is always

been real important to you

and I'd just hate to see you

throw it away.

Abby, you were the one

that told me

to take all the time off

in the first place.

I wanted you

to take time off because

I wanted you to think about the

things that were bothering you.

But lately all you've

thought about is Jeff.

Yeah. I'm a lot happier too.

Are you sure

you're happy or..

...or are you just convincing

yourself you are?

Why would I do that?

Joannie, don't get me wrong.

I think it's terrific that

you're in love with Jeff.

But you can't use

your relationship with him

to escape from the, from the

other things in your life.

I just don't want you to rush

into something as important

as marriage with, uh, without

first being sure of yourself

and-and the things

you really want from life.

I-I won't, Abby.

Well, it's not like

the wedding is tomorrow, Abby.

We haven't even set a date yet.

I just want you to slow down

long enough

to think about it, okay?

Okay. I gotta go.

Jeff's waiting.

[instrumental music]

Bye.

[door shuts]

I don't believe this.

calls in minutes.

Most are from out of town.

Oh, here comes

the famous person.

Hey, we collected a couple

of phone calls for you

while you were in the shower.

Oh, boy, I don't even

know these people.

[laughs]

Oh-h-h!

I'm afraid so, Nancy.

Your adoring public.

- Oh, no.

- 'You wanted to be famous.'

Yeah, but, uh, why did

this one guy call ten times?

Well, that's Phil McDonalds,

your fiance.

My what?

You know, the guy,

with the mother in Pittsburg?

Oh, yeah.

[phone rings]

You might as well

get that, Nancy.

I'm sure it's for you.

Hello.

Oh, hi, Bill.

'Uh, yes, I got the messages.'

This weekend?

Uh, no, I don't think so.

Because I can't go to

Pittsburg this weekend.

I don't even know you!

Well, I guess you'll

just have to tell her

that the wedding

has been postponed.

- Oh, brother!

- Bum-bum-ba-bum.

- Don't know why she's so upset.

- Really.

Can't you take a break

just for a few minutes?

No way,

I've got too much to do.

Why're you doing this,

anyway?

Because it's Nicholas'

Saturday job

and he has a ticket

to the Jethro Tull concert.

"The" concert?

The one that's gonna

launch our career?

That's right,

and in exchange for the ticket

I have to do

everything he says.

Which is about to k*ll me.

Hey, Tommy.

Yes, Nicholas?

A little less chin music,

and a little more elbow grease.

You see what I mean?

You heard the man!

Don't stand there

runnin' your mouth.

You got work to do.

[instrumental music]

[phone ringing]

- May I help you?

- Oh.

No, I'm just waiting

for someone.

Uh, may I..

Oh, d-do you work at this desk?

- Well, sort of.

- Oh, sorry.

What do you mean sort of?

Well, you see,

I'm-I'm supposedly

a temporary replacement,

but, uh..

the rumor has it

that the girl I'm replacing

might not be coming back.

- Really?

- 'Well..'

I'm keeping my fingers crossed.

This could be my big break.

Yeah.

Uh, um, excuse me,

gotta keep on my toes.

- Oh, sure.

- Hello.

Hello, Mr. Koppel.

The squirrel story,

it will be ready at noon.

No problem.

[instrumental music]

Oh, Jeff, hi.

Oh, Joannie, I was gonna call

you, but you'd already left.

- Oh, is something wrong?

- No, no, no.

It's just that I'm not gonna be

able to take you to lunch.

Things are really getting crazy.

This story just came in

and I gotta get it

on the air by : .

You know how it gets

around here.

- I-I-I really am sorry though.

- It's okay, I understand.

Look, I gotta run.

I'll see tonight, okay?

Oh, uh..

- Bye.

- Bye.

[phone ringing]

[music continues]

(Jeremy)

'Hey, Nancy, there's this guy

on the phone for you.'

He says

he's your number one fan.

Oh, I have spent the last

three hours on the phone

talking to

of my number one fans.

I can't take it anymore.

What do you want me

to tell him?

Tell him I d*ed tragically

over the weekend.

Nancy, I can't tell him

you d*ed.

It will break

the poor guy's heart.

Well, then, tell him I'm in a

coma, and the chances are slim.

Nancy, you wanna go with me?

At least then

you won't have to lie.

- Where are you going?

- Just to the movies.

It's not very exciting,

but it's now.

Great. Anything

is better than this.

- Okay, come on.

- Yeah, let's get outta here.

Would you just hold on there?

Don't push.

You know, wait..

What-what was your name?

What was your name? Tom?

Tom? Okay, hold on. Just a sec..

Guys, you know, the movie's

gonna start any second.

Any more bright ideas?

Ah-ha!

- How's that story coming?

- Terrific!

It will be ready just in time

for the o'clock news.

Oh, that's great,

I've got another one

I want you to get someone on.

- Who's available?

- Are you kidding?

Everybody in this staff

is so busy

they're making

appointments to breathe.

What is it?

It's a view of

the chemical waste program.

On a local level,

it's nothing major

but it could be interesting.

As long as words

are shorthanded

you know who could be

perfect for this story?

- Who?

- Joannie Bradford.

One little problem,

she's on leave of absence.

- Call her, get her back here.

- Call her back?

- Is there some other problem?

- No.

It just.. She might not wanna

interrupt her vacation--

Oh, nonsense, she's been

begging me for months

for stories just like this.

She'll bust the door down to get

back in here. You call her.

Alright, I'll call her.

Great.

Yeah, great.

[instrumental music]

Uh! There.

I think that just about

covers everything.

Mary, would you do me favor

and run this up to Nicholas?

- Why? Is he sick?

- No, but I'm working on it.

Huh?

Well, you see, I sort of

made this deal with him.

I'd be his sl*ve for a week.

I figured, how bad

could it be, right?

And you were wrong.

Boy, was I wrong!

I haven't had a break all day.

I'm supposed to be

at rehearsals right now.

I'm hoping that after he eats

all of this garbage

'he won't feel like

ordering me around anymore.'

What is all of this?

(Tommy)

One peanut butter

and jellybean sandwich.

One bowl of potato chips,

one chocolate shake.

One candy bar and

one chocolate cream pie.

- No chocolate ice cream?

- Almost forgot.

- Tommy, this is really cruel.

- No, it's not. It's survival.

Oh, uh, Nicholas,

I was just on my way

to bring you a little snack.

No, thanks.

But I fixed all your

favorite goodies.

I'm not hungry.

Besides, you better get to work.

You've got extra homework

to do tonight.

- Says who?

- Mrs. Rogers.

You know that term paper

you did for me?

Yeah.

You flunked.

(Joannie)

'I don't know,

I've just been kind of down'

since this afternoon, I guess.

You know being back in

the newsroom made me realize

how much I miss

being part of all that.

If I go back to work, though

it's gonna be the same

old garbage again.

[indistinct chatter]

[sighs]

Oh, Jeff,

I don't know what to do.

[sighs]

You blew it.

What?

That was your cue to say

something to cheer me up.

Oh, I'm sorry. I..

I guess I'm not in

a very good mood either.

Oh, Jeff, did you have

a bad day at work?

Look, could we talk

about something

besides work for a while?

Sure.

I've had it. I'm gonna spend

the rest of my life at home

where nobody can bother me.

Hey, Nancy, my favorite

Sunshine girl. How's it going?

(all)

Hey!

Jeremy, what is going on?

These are some guys

from school.

I kinda told them

they could meet you.

Then I kindly suggest

you tell them you're breaking

your promise.

- But, Nancy, why?

- Jeremy, look, you heard me.

I'm tired of being on exhibit.

- Jeremy, what's going on?

- What's going on?

[indistinct chatter]

Look, Jeffrey, why don't you

build the fire in the fireplace

and put some music on,

and all that other trite stuff?

Then we'll try to think of

something to do

to cheer us both up, huh?

Okay.

What is bothering you, Jeffrey?

It's nothing.

It's just, uh..

It's just something

that happened at work today.

Well, can you tell me about it?

Koppel came into my office

this afternoon with a story

he said it'd be perfect for you.

[chuckles]

What is it this time?

A dolphin that recites

the Gettysburg Address, right?

Nope.

It's a legitimate news story.

You'd love it.

Really? Really, Jeff?

Koppel's gonna let me do a real

story? I don't believe it.

That's what he said.

Well, what's wrong?

Why did you wait

so long to tell me?

Why, don't you think

I can do this story?

(Jeffrey)

'Of course.

Don't be ridiculous!'

- Well, what is it then?

- Just..

I was under the impression

that you were happy

with the way things were going.

And obviously I was wrong.

You don't want me

to go back to work.

Is that what

this is all about?

I just wish you should

make up your mind.

Last week you hated the job,

this week you can't wait

to go back.

What am I supposed to do?

Put my life on hold

while you make up your mind--

Well, am I suppose

to do, Jeffrey?

Give up my chance at a big story

because you want

your dinner on the table--

It's not just that!

Use your head!

Things are different now.

It could get very awkward

at work

if you come back

as my fiance!

Oh.

Well, there's a very simple

solution to that problem

isn't there?

[intense music]

[door slams]

[instrumental music]

(Joannie)

'Oh, I told Koppel

that I'd come in early'

'get started on that story.'

Are you okay?

Well, it's not the easiest thing

that I'd ever had to do.

I'll survive.

If there's anything I can do

to help, would you let me know?

I'll be fine, Abby, really.

Okay.

[instrumental music]

Nancy, what are you doing?

- Picking out on nose.

- Oh, ho ho.

(Tom)

'You're going to change

your nose?'

No, I'm gonna change

my whole face.

I'm just starting

with my nose.

Why? What's wrong

with your face?

(Nancy)

'Nothing, except for the fact

it can't go anywhere anymore'

without being mobbed, screamed

at, sung for, or proposed to.

Hmm, in other words, uh..

fame isn't all you dreamed

it would be, right?

Well, dad, I think it's exactly

what I dreamed it would be.

I just never figured

it would bother me like this.

Am I gonna have to spend

the rest of my life

running from the phone and

wearing disguises in public?

Maybe...but, you know, if you

ever feel that the rewards

aren't worth it,

you can always just quit.

Yeah, quit.

Besides, look at all the good

things that have come of it.

Do you realize

what you've done?

You've found yourself a career

that you're good at.

And you've gone

right to the top.

How many people

can say that?

Yeah, I guess I could have

a lot worse problems

than a career

that's going too well.

And isn't it

worth the inconvenience

knowing that your family

feels lucky just to be related

to someone as special as you?

And isn't it

worth the inconvenience

knowing that you have a father

that's very proud of you?

You bet it is.

Oh, thanks, dad.

You're terrific.

Yeah. Well, I have

an ulterior motive.

Yeah?

I know who's gonna end up

paying for that new nose.

[laughing]

- Hi.

- Hi.

How's the story going?

Umm. I don't really know.

I just got started.

Joannie, I think

we oughta talk.

I'd like a chance

to explain about last night.

The explanation

seems obvious, Jeff.

You want a wife,

but not a fellow reporter.

I know it's unfair for me

to expect you to give up

your career, but it's also

unfair for you to expect me

to give up

all the things I want.

What do you want?

I never actually realized it

until I came this close

to having it.

I guess what I really want

is a home..

...a family..

...somebody to give me that.

'Is that so horrible?'

No.

[sighs]

Except it can't be me.

- Not right now, anyway.

- I know, I know and I'm sorry.

I can't help the way I feel.

Any more than you can help

the way you feel.

'I guess there's just no way

that we can have each other'

'and still have all the other

things that we both want.'

I guess not.

So..

I think the best thing is, um..

...for us to go back

to the way things were

before we got involved

in this relationship.

Fine.

I want this section!

And since when

do you read anything

heavier than the comics?

Since they started printing

Nancy's ad in the Metro section.

I promised to get it autographed

for Kenny P. Landers.

Well, Nicholas, if I were you,

I wouldn't ask her

anytime soon, okay?

- Poor Nance.

- I know.

I don't know how much

more fame she can stand?

Hey, what's this?

Not another moustache.

No, that's not Nancy.

It's a guy.

The Sunshine boy.

That's terrific.

- They have a new campaign.

- What?

Hey, let me see.

(Elizabeth)

'Nancy, your troubles are over.

You've been replaced.'

Does that mean

Nancy's going back to being

a normal person again?

No. That means Nancy's

gonna be a has-been.

- What is with her?

- I can't figure it out.

I think it's gone

to her head.

Tommy, you're still asleep?

Yeah, 'cause I'm exhausted,

I was up till : a.m.

doing your homework.

Yeah, well, get up, you've

got a lot more things to do.

[sighs]

Right now I can't move.

You've worn me out.

If it wasn't

for the concert tonight

I'd sh**t myself and

put myself out of my misery.

Well...I guess

you can have today off.

You want your ticket now?

Tommy? Tommy?

- Is Tommy still sleeping?

- Yeah, he's pretty tired.

I guess I worked him

a little too hard.

Oh, why don't you surprise him

when he wakes up

and give him his ticket?

No. I think I'm gonna do

something even better than that.

(Jeremy)

'Hey, if it'll make

you feel any better'

you got nicer legs

than that new guy.

Thanks.

Hey, you even look better

in a moustache.

Thanks.

Hey, Jeremy.. Jeremy, I'm

really sorry I yelled at you.

That's okay. Getting yelled

at is my specialty.

I've brought you

a present here.

- What?

- Just a little something.

What'd you bring me?

Uh, just some newspaper

clippings and stuff.

Gosh, I can't believe it!

You actually saved

these clippings?

Oh, why?

I thought you maybe

wanna keep 'em, you know?

Oh, that's really nice.

Thanks, Jeremy.

You know, I was just getting

used to the idea of being famous

and now it's all gone.

So, you'll be ready

for it next time.

Yeah, if there is a next time.

Nancy, look,

there's gonna be a next time.

You were a smash hit.

- Think so?

- Yeah.

Besides, I got it

from a very good source

they're looking for a cover girl

for "BeeKeepers Digest."

[both chuckling]

Do you have

the fervor on chlorine?

Thanks.

This isn't easy, Jeff.

I think we're both

professional enough

not to let our personal feelings

get in the way of our work.

Well, that makes one of us.

Joannie, it's getting late.

Why don't you go home

and get some rest?

We can wrap all this up

in the morning.

Are you sure?

Yeah, I'm sure.

- Jeff--

- Just go, Joannie.

Is she alright?

I don't know. I..

I don't think she's been out

of her room since she got home.

Yeah, I know, I-I tried

to take her some dinner

but she said

she wasn't hungry.

I think the hardest part

about being a parent

is having to see your child

go through something

that really hurts and not being

able to do anything about it.

[knock on door]

Oh, come in.

- Hi.

- Hi.

Joannie, are you okay?

I've been better.

I.. It's..

I just wanted to tell you that I

really appreciate your concern.

It means a lot to me.

It's just this is something that

I have to work out on my own.

I know.

Is there anything at all

that we can do?

I could use a hug.

[instrumental music]

[sobbing]

Dad.

What surprise?

What are you talking about?

Mrs. Rogers was right.

Business is easy

once you understand the basics.

Here.

What's this? My ticket?

- No, your share.

- Share of what?

The money I got from

Kenny P. Landers' brother.

- I sold him the ticket.

- You sold the ticket?

Yeah. I asked for twice as much

as it was worth and he paid it.

- You sold the ticket?

- Yeah.

I wish Mrs. Rogers could have

seen me out-business him.

He never knew what hit him.

- He sold the ticket.

- Yes.

See, I remember you were saying

that you didn't have

enough money

to buy your own ticket.

And I wanna do

something nice for you.

So, I'm gonna give you

half my profit.

This way you get your own ticket

and a little extra money too.

Pretty smooth, huh?

Nicholas, you don't understand.

There are no tickets!

The concert's been sold out.

I couldn't get a ticket if I had

five times this amount of money.

What, you couldn't?

Why do you think Kenny's brother

was willing to pay so much?

I thought I wheeled

and dealed them.

I don't believe this.

After all I've been through

and I'm gonna miss the concert!

Would it help

if I felt real bad?

[sighs]

Here's the last of it.

- Not bad.

- Not bad? Is that all?

It's for your first big story.

What do you expect?

Well, uh, I thought,

"Terrific" or "Outstanding."

I'd settle for

a merely "Great."

Joannie, I can't lie to you.

It's..

It's merely great.

- It is?

- Yeah.

You did a terrific job

and you're gonna be

a very good reporter.

And..

And?

And I love you.

Oh, I love you too.

We can't just work together.

- It's too hard.

- I know.

Believe me, I know.

What are we gonna do?

[instrumental music]

I don't know.

All I know is that

I love you too much

to go on like this.

We're just gonna have

to work it out.

I thought you were afraid

of an office scandal.

This is a special occasion.

I'll risk it.

[music continues]

Oh.

[chuckling]

[instrumental music]

Hi, Tommy, you still mad?

Just keep scrubbing, Nicholas,

you've got a long way to go.

It was probably

a dumb concert anyways.

I wish you wouldn't be so mad.

I said I was sorry.

[sighs]

Just keep scrubbing, Nicholas.

I know I was a little rough

on you when you were my sl*ve.

And it was real dumb of me

to sell your ticket.

'But you're my brother,

you're supposed to forgive me'

when I do dumb things.

And I said I was sorry.

Okay, okay.

- You want some help?

- You bet.

Oh, and, uh..

Tommy.

Kenny P. Landers brought

you back this program

from the concert.

I thought you might like

to keep it as a souvenir.

[instrumental music]

I guess that means no, huh?

[theme music]