Watch Your Step, Scene #01

The scene begins in Bill's (John Strong) bedroom. As he smoothes over creases in the bed and arranges the pillows in a precise manner, he gives off an air of nervousness and anxiety. He surveys the room, taking in every aspect. He observes that something is a little strange—a pillow is on the bed when it shouldn't be. He hurries over and tilts the pillow a little. It is obvious that he is constructing a particularly particular scene based on the care with which he is handling it. Suddenly, the doorbell rings. Bill inhales deeply and straightens his attire before answering the door. When Bill answers the door, he initially sees Amanda (Paige Owens), an escort. She received very explicit directions from Bill for a roleplay scenario, including what to wear. After going up some steps, Bill shows Amanda into the living room. Bill is strangely adamant that Amanda not use the steps. It becomes evident from their conversation that Amanda will be playing Darcy, Bill's stepdaughter. But when Bill invites Amanda to visit him in his bedroom, something doesn't seem quite right. Amanda watches Bill go as he stands up and walks away, a tinge of fear now visible on her face. What has she let herself become involved in? CUT TO TITLEAfter a little while, the roleplay starts. A knock on Bill's door occurs when he is seated on his bed. He gestures for the individual to enter. Amanda peers inside. Amanda enters and places her backpack down before sitting next to him on the bed. With a smile, Bill gently brushes a hair off Amanda's face. Her smile is returned by him. Subsequently, Bill confesses his affections to Amanda, who is assuming the role of Darcy. Following Bill's directions, 'Darcy' feels the same way. They give one other a passionate kiss.