The camera zooms in on Adam's face and a slow smile crosses his lips as Puckett's voice can be heard in the background.

"So you don't know anything, is that it? And why doesn't that surprise me."

The view changes to a wide shot of the principal's office, Puckett in his chair, fists clenched.

"It just seems too coincidental that Butch gets locked in the boiler room this past Friday night when you were here for the dance. Adam ... do you know how upset his parents are? It's a good thing the custodian came in early on Saturday ... the poor boy was ... but I can see you don't care," Puckett says.

At that moment the door opens and Ms. Jones walks in. Puckett stands up politely and she ignores him.

"Adam ... I think we need to talk," She says.

"I was just ... " Puckett begins to say, but Jones holds up her hand and Puckett plops back in his chair and freezes.

"Oh, you can do that too?" Adam says.

"Human minds aren't that complex," Jones says. She sits on the corner of Puckett's desk and smiles at Adam. "So why are you here, I thought this planet was off limits to Regalians?"

"It is, I wasn't planning to stay ... I just came here for a hamburger, and then the car died. Are you allowed to be here?"

"I have permission to study the planet, I'm an anthropologist. I have the exception for twenty-five cycles, and on Bubalia that means about sixty-three Earth years. I decided to become a human for that period of time, it makes the study easier," Jones says.

"Oh ... so you've been here a while, what if you needed to leave?" Adam asks.

"I have a way out, but I can't help you get home, we're on different sides of the galaxy. Do your parents know you're here?"

"No, but my father will come looking for me sooner or later," Adam says. "So why did you take this job?"

Jones smiles. "This school is a gold mine of information. I'm studying human development, where else would I be? Besides, this place is fun, and we both seem to enjoy driving this man crazy."

They both look at Puckett. His face is frozen in a smile and he is completely unaware of the world around him.

"Are you okay? I mean, can you wait for your father to come find you?" Jones asks.

"Yeah, I'll be fine. Only Steve knows who I am ... I had to tell someone."

"Yeah, I like Steve, he reminds me of my grandkids at home."

"Oh come on, you aren't that old," Adam says.

"I'm forty-eight cycles old, that comes to about a hundred and sixteen years here. Another advantage of this planet, the oxygen is so rich I haven't aged a bit since I arrived," Jones says.

"Oh great, you mean I won't grow up while I'm here?"

"Maybe, I'm from Orionian space, we have different genetics I suppose."

"So why ... why did you reveal yourself to me?" Adam asks. "I might never have known."

"I think we both need to deal with Butch before you get yourself in real trouble."

Adam nods. "I can alter their thinking about me, but I can't make permanent changes. I know the rules and we aren't allowed to do that. But Butch goes after Steve when I'm not looking, I can't always be there."

Jones smiles. "Why don't you try being his friend? I think most of his problem is that the other kids make fun of him all the time. He really doesn't want to be so mean. Just spend a little time talking to him, it might work."

"Never thought of that," Adam says. "Okay, I'll see what happens."

"You might start by saying you're sorry for locking him in the boiler room and then maybe Puckett will calm down a bit." She stands up and nods. Puckett immediately becomes animated.

"I was just ... when did you come in?" Puckett asks.

"I was just telling Adam he needs to apologize to Butch, there are other ways to deal with his delinquency," Jones says.

"Yes, that would be a good start," Puckett says.

"I have class," Adam says. He jumps up and walks out the door.

"Cut," Alan said. "That worked well."

"So are we going to lunch?" Brenda asked.

"My pleasure," Wayne said.

They had been shooting little scenes all morning, slowly working their way through a long list of scripted moments between the major characters. This first week of August was designated as a break for the kids who were extras in the show and Alan was enjoying every minute of the 'quiet time.'

Steve had the day off as well and was out with Jean and Tim looking at real estate. Brian took Mark to La Mesa for lunch where they were surrounded by the Hollywood crowd. Mark ordered and then looked around the room.

"Henry Dobbs is sitting over there against the wall," Mark said. "He really zoomed to the top with that offbeat comedy last year. I wonder what he's doing now."

"You ought to ask Tina, she keeps track of what all the stars in Hollywood are doing," Brian replied.

"There's still a pretty big divide between the television and film people ... oops, he's looking at me," Mark said, smiling and nodding at the man.

"You're both entertainers, Mark. He has to know who you are."

"We'll find out ... he's coming over," Mark said.

"Mark Harrison, isn't it?" Henry said.

"Yes ... Hello, Mr. Dobbs."

"You may call me Hank, and who's this?"

"Brian Simmons, nice to meet you," Brian said.

"I don't want to disturb your lunch, I'm sure you're still on a shooting schedule," Hank said.

"Yeah, but we have time ... will you join us?" Mark asked.

Hank smiled. "Sure, just for a few minutes." He looked around and sat down. "We're in the planning stages of a new film, very secretive you know. But I've managed to catch a few episodes of your show. You have something good going on there."

"Thank you, I'm having fun. Brian is one of the directing assistants, he's not allowed to have fun," Mark laughed.

Hank laughed in return. "I know Alan very well, he's a good man. So what's this I hear, you're writing script?"

"I contribute a little," Mark said.

Hank nodded. "And they say you're modest about it as well. So ... well, you don't know this, but I'm producing my own films now and my next one might have a place for someone like you."

Mark's eyes went wide. "A role in your film?"

Hank nodded. "Yes ... to be fair we need to run a screen test on you or the union will scream at me, are you willing to endure that?"

Mark looked over at Brian. "Do I have the time?" Then he looked back at Hank. "When do you start shooting?"

"End of September is the tentative date, maybe a little later. Don't you want to know what the film is about?"

"I do ... but if you're in it then it has to be good," Mark said.

"That would work into your schedule, we ought to be finished shooting the season by then," Brian said.

"You have an agent?" Hank asked.

"Todd Mason, he's about to become my uncle ... do you know him?" Mark asked.

Hank nodded. "Another good man, you're lucky, for the agent and the uncle part. I'll have my assistant call him and we can set this all up." Then he laughed. "Sure you don't want to know what the part is all about?"

"Okay, tell me," Mark said.

"Cowboys and Indians, only this time the Indians win ... unfortunately you would have to be the cowboy."

Mark grinned. "Let me guess, you're the Indian."

"Yup, Indigo Proudfoot, that's me. It would be a big part, Mark ... something to test your skills. I'll get you a copy of the script. It's just about as crazy as what you're doing now ... at least I hope so."

"Oh, I like crazy," Mark said. "Thank you, Hank ... I was just beginning to wonder if anyone in this town was going to take me seriously."

"I can see you have great potential, maybe this will be the vehicle you need. I saw you sitting there and told myself I'd be lucky to get you in my film," Hank said, scooting his chair back and standing up. "Finish your lunch and get back to work. I'll send the script over to you at Triton. Just sorta keep it quiet if you would."

"Won't say a thing," Mark said, "And neither will Brian."

Brian nodded. "I'm his coach as well."

"Coach?" Hank asked.

"Yeah, martial arts," Mark said.

"Cool," Hank said. "I'll talk to you guys next week after Todd gets his nose in the middle of all this, bye for now."

Hank and Mark shook hands and the man walked out. Mark looked over at Brian and grinned. "Fuckin awesome."

Brian nodded. "Crazy town ... and all we did was stop in for lunch."

Steve was pretty tired of looking at houses. They had seen four so far just today. Jean had found a reason to reject most of them. Tim kept silent, deferring to Jean and watching Steve grow impatient. But both knew she would have to make the final decision because this would be her house once Steve was of an age to move out.

Tim also knew that convincing Jean and Frank to allow Steve to live with him was going to be tough. The evolution from child to man was becoming more apparent every day in the way Steve acted and accepted the responsibilities in life. His age was the only roadblock to making personal choices and Tim knew the boy was ready to push the limits of his mother's acceptance.

Constance had been patient all morning, realizing that yet another child star was in the making here and that the mother was on edge because of it. For any family to feel like they had to hide away from the public behind tall fences and locked gates was emotionally trying. But this cute boy in her back seat was fast becoming a Hollywood favorite, just like Mark Harrison.

All the homes she had shown them seemed to fit the criteria for security Tim had set out, she knew he was along for the ride until a choice was made. But either the house was too big, the grounds too expansive or the location too remote ... Jean Biddle had some excuse each time.

"This next house has been on the market for two months," Constance said. "The estate of William Dunlop settled about six years ago and his family shared out the parcels, each building a home on a piece of the land. It may look like a tiny subdivision, but it's actually a small gated community."

They pulled up to the gates and Constance punched in a code on the security station. A gate swung open to admit them and she drove up the street towards a cluster of homes. Each house was different, and yet the landscaping and privacy of each was assured by the layout of walls and hedges.

"There are five homes, but only three of them remain in Dunlop hands," Constance said. "One now belongs to another family with a situation much like yours, I can't tell you their name but you'll soon find out if you take the house."

They pulled in the driveway of a ranch style home that seemed fairly ordinary on the outside. Constance could detect a bit of indifference from Jean and smiled.

"I know it looks plain here in front. I assure you it is anything but inside and out back ... shall we go see?"

In fact the house was perfect for what Jean had in mind. Four bedrooms, a modern kitchen and comfortable living space ... and the yard held a swing set. She stared at it for a moment and smiled.

"This house has a nice feel," She said.

Constance sighed, this was progress. Tim and Steve wondered what Jean was thinking.

"You like this house, Mom?" Steve asked.

"Yes, dear ... why don't you go look at the bedrooms."

Tim followed Steve back in the house and they went down the hall to the bedrooms. "I suppose she wants me to pick one ... guess this is the place. Is she acting weird or what?" Steve asked.

Tim put a hand on Steve's shoulder and the boy slid into his embrace. "I knew she didn't want some huge mansion for the three of you," Tim said. "And I have a sneaking suspicion that there will soon be four in your family."

"Jeez, you think she's pregnant?"

"Could be, your parents have had a lot of quality time together," Tim replied.

Steve smiled. "Well so have we." And with that he leaned up and kissed Tim.

"Oh ... sorry," They both heard from the doorway to the bedroom, Jean was standing there. "I should have known," She said, and then she turned and left.

"Oh shit," Steve said.

"You better go talk to her, she's probably in shock," Tim said.

"Yeah ... this could be bad," Steve said and he hurried after his mother. He passed Constance in the kitchen talking on her cell phone and saw the back door was open. He walked out on the patio and saw his mother standing at the railing looking at the swing set.

"Mom ... ?"

She turned and there were tears on her face. "Steve ... how could you?"

"I ... I love him, Mom. I've known that for almost six months now," Steve said.

"He's old enough to be your father ... this makes me very unhappy."

Steve walked over and put his arms around his mother and gave her a hug. "He means the world to me, Mom ... it was my choice not his."

"But why Steve ... just tell me why?" Jean said.

"Because I feel safe with him for one thing. I never knew how to stand up for myself until I met Tim. You've known I was gay for a while now. I know you've talked about it with him. He's never hurt me, he never will. Nothing can stop what we have, Mom ... I won't allow that to happen."

"I don't know what to do," Jean said. "It's illegal for one thing ... "

"You won't do anything except respect my privacy and my desires," Steve said. "Nothing will happen to Tim, I won't allow it. If I lose him then you lose me."

Jean looked in Steve's eyes and saw the truth in those words, and she nodded. "I can't lose you, sweetie, I need you more than ever now. You're going to have a baby sister very soon."

Steve hugged her again. "I thought so, that's awesome."

Jean sighed. "I suppose this house will do, it seems nice enough ... and there's room for a nursery."

"And what about my feelings for Tim?" Steve asked.

Jean held her son at arm's length. "You're sure this is what you want? I ought to be angry at you both for hiding things from me ... but I understand."

"Let's take the house," Steve said. "And there's one other thing I need to tell you now that you know, I'll be moving in with Tim very soon. I want you to think about it, but it's going to happen."

Jean smiled. "I see my little man is all grown up and making his own decisions now. You've never shied away from responsibility, that's one of the things I love about you. I suppose this is just another example of that. Fine, you make your plans and we'll just keep this our little secret. When the time comes I'll handle your father, he wouldn't understand any of this."

Steve leaned in and kissed his mother. "I love you, Mom ... thank you."

"You have yourself to thank. If I didn't trust you none of this would be possible. Now you go tell Tim, I'm sure he's worried. I suppose in time he and I will work things out, but not now ... today we have a house to buy with your money."

Constance seemed very pleased, this had been a slow year in the market and commissions were hard to come by. Jean wrote her a personal check for the deposit and they talked about the area. It would be several days for the seller to sign off on the deal, but now the Biddle family had a new home.

Tim had left the house and walked the perimeter after Jean saw them kissing, he wasn't sure what was going to happen. She could forbid them from seeing one another, but he knew Steve would fight anything like that. He was examining the windows along the side of the house when Steve found him.

Tim saw the smile on his face. "And ... ?" He asked.

"All good, we're taking the house ... and Mom is pregnant," Steve said.

"All good ... she understands?"

"I think so ... she didn't even freak when I told her I was moving in with you. You guys will talk about this later on, just not now."

Tim grinned. "I should have known you'd make this work."

"Yeah, she won't tell my father. So who do you think the famous person is that lives around here?"

"Besides you? I have no idea," Tim said.

"Maybe Constance will tell us now."

Jean and Constance were still in the kitchen since there was nowhere else to sit except at the breakfast bar. Steve led Tim into the room and he avoided looking directly at Jean.

"Okay, so who is the famous neighbor?" Steve asked.

Jean laughed. "See, I told you he'd want to know right away."

Constance smiled. "I'm sure you know him, it's Michael Kane."

"Oh wow, the guy is a fantastic actor," Steve said.

"Yes, I like him too," Constance said. "He and his family moved in about six months ago, and I believe they have some teenage kids about your age."

"Cool, easy way to meet the father," Steve laughed.

"They're probably fans of yours as well," Constance said.

"Steve forgets how popular he's become," Jean said. "But with that gate down there I hope we don't get any more unexpected visitors ... right, Tim?"

Tim had to look at her and all he got back was a warm smile. He didn't know how she could be so calm after finding out her son was in love with him, but she was.

"The lot is secure and so is the house. I don't expect you'll be getting any more unexpected packages on your doorstep," Tim said.

"Good, now we can go tell your father I just spent all your money, that ought to freak him out," Jean said.

Steve laughed. "I'll just have to make some more then."

Constance drove them back to her office and Tim called James to come pick them up. Jean looked at Steve and then Tim as they sat in the back of the limo.

"I want you to know this is awkward for me ... for all of us." She looked specifically at Tim. "I told Steve I trusted him to do what's best ... I have to believe you'll go along with that. I feel like a fool for not seeing what was happening."

"I'm sorry, Jean. We had no way of knowing how you would react, and I didn't want you worried," Tim said.

"Steve says he started this ... is that true?"

"Yes ... he said he had feelings for me. This has never happened to me before, but Steve was emotionally ready and caught me by surprise."

Jean nodded. "I worry because he's physically smaller and ... "

"Whoa," Steve said. "I will not talk about what we do in private. Just understand that Tim said the very same thing to me when we first discovered these feelings. He can't hurt me, Mom, he won't. I never had anyone to share my feelings with ... my gay feelings. It's not something I could talk to my mother about."

Jean nodded. "I wouldn't expect you to, and you found someone all by yourself because of that. I don't think being gay is a bad thing, sweetie ... you can't help but be yourself. But if I was worried that you might find it hard to be gay, now I'm more worried that the partner you chose will make that even more difficult."

Steve nodded in return. "Yeah, it's like everyone is watching me. At least the new house will make things easier on all of us. I need food, is anyone else hungry?"

"Yes, we ought to get something ... "Jean began, but the intercom interrupted her.

"Mr. Real," James said.

"Yes?" Tim replied.

"There's a late model blue Chrysler following us, three passengers, all young females," James said.

"Those are the girls who left you the package," Tim said. "That's the car they drove."

"Are we in danger?" Jean asked.

"No, Mom ... they're just fans. Once we move in the new house they won't be able to get to me, I'm sorry. Mark thinks I should just go ahead and talk to them."

"Oh? What for?" Jean asked.

"All they want to do is start a fan club and Mark thinks it would be easier if I controlled their access to information. Like set up an email address where they could reach me privately and I suppose that means allowing them to meet with me occasionally. If they feel special then maybe they'll leave us alone."

Tim nodded. "That makes sense, so how do you plan to talk to them?"

"How about now ... let's invite them to lunch," Steve said. "Tell James to pull over."

Tim relayed the request, amused that Steve was taking charge and very aware that his mother was observing her son. Steve got out of the limo and walked back to the blue car.

"Good afternoon, ladies," Steve said through the open window. The girls were stunned and didn't know what to say, so Steve smiled. "I know why you're following us. I just hope you don't plan on leaving any more suspicious packages on my doorstep."

The girl behind the wheel blushed at Steve's words and the proximity of his face to hers. "Um ... no, that was a mistake," She said.

"You're Dana ... right?" Steve said, suddenly remembering the name on the box.

"Yes ... and this is Colleen and Michelle," Dana said.

"Look, about this fan club ... I guess we need to talk," Steve said. "Are you busy or are you just wasting the afternoon following me around?"

He laughed as Dana nodded. "Fine, I have an idea ... can I take you to lunch?"

All three girls squealed and Steve almost regretted the decision, but Dana gazed at him with adoring eyes. She had to be at least a high school junior, and she was attractive, if Steve was into that kind of thing, but he wasn't.

"You ... you want to take us to lunch?" Dana asked.

"Yes, that will give us a chance to talk ... will that work?"

"Ahh ... that would be sweet," Dana said.

"Then follow us, we're going to Zipper's. Just be cool, that's my mom in the car along with my bodyguard."

Dana nodded and Steve walked back to the limo where James stood holding the door open. "They'll be following us to the restaurant, Jim," Steve said.

Zipper's was last year's trendy Hollywood lunch spot, but Tim knew the owners. Brent was working the front so Tim knew Michael was in the kitchen today. Between them these two gay men had built a quality of service in their restaurant that couldn't be matched anywhere else in town.

Brent's eyebrows went up when Tim walked in with a young boy and four women, not his usual cadre of followers. But he smiled and showed them to a table on the upper level. Steve had made the introductions out in the parking lot, and now the girls sat across the table from him.

Tim sat back and watched Steve, amused at the situation. Obviously there had been some discussion with Mark about how this ought to work, and at least it left the boys in charge of the contact. But Steve had the right idea about what the fans ought to see, and that meant lots of public image and very little of his private life.

Dana and the girls had already organized themselves. She was president, Michelle the VP and Colleen came in as secretary. Steve got their e-mail addresses and they talked about fan events. The studio would provide photos, Steve would make appearances. He even offered to take them on a tour of the set and allow them to view an actual day of shooting. After an hour the girls seemed satisfied with the meeting and the lunch. They left and Steve smiled.

"That went pretty well."

Tim looked over at Jean and grinned. "I figure he'll be governor in about thirty years, you raised a smooth politician."

She nodded. "Yes, I see that. Better he stays in charge of this whole fan business than allowing them to run wild and follow us everywhere."

"There will still be followers, Mom ... the tabloids and their photographers. At least if someone follows we now know it's the enemy."

"Action," Alan said quietly, and still his voice echoed around the tiny corner of the locker room.

"Just stay away from me," Butch says. "I don't trust you."

"I've never hurt you, but I don't really understand you," Adam replies. "Why are you such a jerk all the time?"

"Who says I'm a jerk?" Butch asks, immediately switching back into bully mode.

"I said that because you are, why are you always picking on Steve?"

"He's such a nerd, and ... "

"You're jealous? That's what I hear," Adam says.

"Jealous ... of him?" Butch laughs.

"Yes. He's no threat to you, he's a nice person but you don't seem to care. You don't pick on me and I'm a bigger nerd than he is," Adam says.

"Uh ... I don't know," Butch says. "You ... you're different, I haven't figured you out yet."

"Well we can go on playing tricks on one another or we can try and be friends ... which do you chose?"

"Friends ... us?" Butch laughs ... and then immediately stops. "What would you do to me if I said no?"

"I won't hurt you, Butch ... but if you hurt Steve just one more time then I might change my mind."

Butch thinks a moment. "If I say friends ... will you tell anyone?"

"Nope, that's our business ... but Ms. Jones would like to know," Adam says.

"Jones ... I wish she was principal, she's cool. I gotta go before someone sees us talkin."

"Bye, Butch ... " Adam says as the boy walks away.

"Cut," Alan said. "And so dies Butch the Bully."

Mark laughed. "Maybe ... what if he flunks a grade?"

Alan smiled. "You guys figure it out. I have some outdoor stuff and a PTA meeting to shoot tomorrow."

Brian drove Mark home, stopping for a Chinese take-out dinner along the way. Rosie was over at Todd's place making wedding plans.

"You know what tomorrow is, don't you?" Brian asked, as he set the food on the kitchen counter.

Mark sighed, of course he knew, but it was time to play the tired actor. "No ... tell me?"

"One year ago, this perfectly handsome young boy walked onto the set of Beacon's World and I became the luckiest man alive," Brian said.

Mark smiled. "Luck had nothing to do with it, you were everything I wanted."

He moved into Brian's embrace for the kiss he wanted, long and slow ... the passion was already there. Mark pulled back and grinned. "Let's eat later."

They adjourned to the sun room and washed before sitting in the Japanese tub. They had both become adjusted to the very hot water of the tub by now, and these moments allowed the body to relax and the mind to forget the transgressions of the day.

"I wonder if I should tell Steve what Hank offered me today," Mark said. "He's going to be so jealous."

"He'll get his opportunity. You notice that Hank was impressed with your production role as well, a lot of people don't know how deeply involved you are outside of the character you play."

"Yeah, it was sweet that Hank knew," Mark said.

"You have quite a talent, old boy ... and it grows more all the time, just like you do," Brian said.

"You talkin about my penis?" Mark giggled.

"Well, there is that too ... one of your better assets."

"Hmm, you flatter me, mister ... what else do you have in mind?"

"I want to carry you off to my castle and make love to your body," Brian said.

Mark laughed. "You don't have to ask for that twice, let's go."

They dried off and ran upstairs to Brian's apartment. And as always Mark sprawled on the bed as Brian stood looking down on the boy. What changes a year had made in that sweet body before him. The first thing he noticed was the scrawny adolescent had evolved into a powerful young man, and yet the boy still had little hair except in the usual places.

Brian was drawn to that adorable face and those soft brown eyes made his heart melt. It was good that Alan had allowed Mark to grow his hair back for the role. The lush cascade of coarse brown growth framed his face and kept his features so very alluring.

"What?" Mark said, "You're staring at me."

"God ... you are just so beautiful, sweetie ... I can't take my eyes off of you."

Mark smiled, a sweet and seductive parting of his lips as his tongue painted them with moisture. "How's about a close-up ... hmm?"

Brian crawled up on the bed and lay down in Mark's embrace until the boy started to giggle.

"I was such a little pervert when I first met you," Mark said. "I remember forgetting my place on the set because I was looking at you behind that camera."

"Oh? You did that on purpose to attract attention?" Brian asked.

Mark nodded. "I asked Rafferty if you could teach me."

"Really? He never said that, what a devious little guy you were," Brian laughed. "You never told me that ... why tell me now?"

"I can't lie to the man who holds my heart. I just wanted something to happen between us, I didn't know you were gay, I just knew what I felt."

"Then I'm glad you did ... look what you started," Brian said.

The kiss was long and tender and Brian pulled Mark on top, feeling the strength as the boy slid his arms around Brian's neck. And as only experienced lovers could manage, Mark slid up and then sighed as Brian penetrated him.

Ever so slowly Mark lay down on Brian's chest and they shared the pounding of their hearts as their minds drifted, clutching at the moment and never wanting it to end. They had shared that perfect moment as lovers time and time again, but the feelings never lessened. Mark knew that all it would take was a glance at any point in their day for them to share these feelings yet again.

The lessons in Tai-chi, and the combat training, had given Mark better control of his body at times like these. His mind could now focus the energy they created at passionate moments, he'd never felt so alive. If nature was kind they would still share these feelings through the years ahead. Mark could look down into Brian's eyes and see that the passion had never waned, they would be lovers for life.

The crazy world of acting, learning to be someone else in a role and assuming it at a moment's notice, all faded away as Mark became the lover. This was too real to fake, too desirable for all the good it brought into his life. Loving his man was beyond the realm of acting, it became the essence of life, the focus of his existence.

"Hey, sweetie ... where did you go?" Brian asked.

"I was a million miles away ... and yet never closer," Mark replied. "You do that to me."

Rosie and Todd were married on a quick trip to Las Vegas and came home to a small celebration that Brian and Mark had cooked up. The ladies from Rosie's Bridge group and the Biddles attended the afternoon event ... and life moved on for the moment. The newlyweds would take a honeymoon when time permitted and Mark wasn't so busy.

Todd was pleased when Mark told him of Hank's offer and they sat down to decide what kind of agreement should be reached. Mark wanted to secure the role before telling anyone about it, and Todd thought that a wise decision. A FedEx package arrived for Mark at the Triton office on Wednesday and Brian locked it away in the Jeep until they could finish the day's work.

The screen test was arranged for Saturday morning so there would be no interference with Alan's shooting schedule. Not even Alan knew about the offer.

"Action," Alan said.

"Beverly ... I want you to meet the new Butch Evans," Adam says.

She looks up from her locker and forces a smile. "Uh ... I know Butch, Adam," Beverly says, eyeing the large boy with suspicion.

"No, you really don't ... he's my friend now, and we've been working on ... um, things."

"Nice to meet you, Beverly," Butch says. "Thanks to Adam I'm changing my attitude, no more Mr. Bad Guy."

"Oh ... okay, that sounds nice." Beverly looks at Adam, still unsure about any of this.

Butch is dressed in a button down shirt and clean stone-washed jeans, no more black shirts and torn up pants. His unruly hair has been trimmed and styled. The outside is a dramatic change, but he still looks awkward in this new role. Adam is determined to make Butch the most popular boy in school.

"I have class, talk to you later," Butch says, and he gives Beverly a smile before he walks away.

"Oh My God ... what have you done to him?" Beverly asks.

"Different, huh? He just needed friends and a makeover, he's trying very hard," Adam says.

"I see that ... he's kinda cute too."

"You think? Would any of your friends go out with him?" Adam asks.

"Maybe ... everyone still thinks he's a bad ass, but we'll see. I bet Denise would like what he's become, she likes big strong boys," Beverly says. "In fact, she's having a party next Saturday. Do you think Butch would go if he was invited?"

"He might ... am I invited?" Adam asks.

"Adam Vernon ... if we asked you to a party would you come? You've avoided almost everything social this year. I don't understand you at all."

"If you invite me I'll make sure Butch is there ... and then we can talk," Adam says. "There's something I've needed to tell you for the longest time."

"Um ... fine, you're both invited, I'll tell Denise. But you better show up, Adam ... I'm tired of these games. Seven o'clock Saturday, and be sure Butch is on his best behavior."

"He will be, we'll be there," Adam says.

"Cut," Alan said. "Well done."

Friday went on like that, shooting bits and pieces of several episodes where the main characters interacted. Having the rest of the season under script made all the difference to the scheduling, they could cruse along now. The kiddies would be back on Monday, but Mark was focused on the following morning ... his big screen test.

Two days ago he had torn into that FedEx box and extracted the script for Cowboys and Indians, the working title of Hank's new film. Brian drove them home as Mark began reading through the book. There was an occasional chuckle and then Mark started laughing. He slapped the book shut with a sigh.

"Wow, no more until we get home ... you do realize that Hank is perfectly insane, this film is gonna blow audiences away," Mark said. "I have to be in it."

"That good? I'll read it when you're done," Brian said. "Have you figured out what it's about?"

"That's easy, he has a synopsis right up front," Mark said, and he began to read:

"The year is 1903. The setting is southern Arizona, somewhere near the Mexican border. Darby O'Brien has just arrived in Tombstone from his home in New York City to claim his uncle's ranch left to him in the will. The boy knows nothing about horses, cows or survival out in the West, but he's a tough city kid.

"The town clerk points him down the road and tells him to ride for half a day to reach the ranch. Darby buys a horse from the stable and rides out to see the ranch where he meets Indigo Proudfoot who has been squatting on the land for three years ... "

"I never rode a horse before ... is it hard?" Mark asked.

"No, falling off is easy," Brian chuckled. "Don't worry about it, you're supposed to be the green kid from back East, at least you won't have to act that part. I'm sure they'll teach you anything you need to know."

The screen test was like nothing Mark had ever experienced. Fortunately he had a mind for absorbing dialogue because in film there were no cue cards. Mark didn't use them on the show, he'd never felt the need. But here he was given a short while to review a dozen lines, and then he had to recite them back. They gave him a cowboy hat to use as a prop, something to do with his hands, a chance to be creative.

The camera shot him in several poses, differing angles of the body and face. And then it was time to talk. Not that Hank and the other three people in the room hadn't heard him speak before, this was all a formality.

Mark remembered reading that in the early days of film all speaking parts were dubbed after being shot. Silent films had developed into 'talkies' and yet the sound technology hadn't kept up quite as fast. But all the famous actors of the silent screen didn't make the cut into recorded sound, voices were as unique as the roles they often played ... some were terrible.

So taking a cue from his stage work, Mark began the scene with a bit of activity. He frowned and removed the hat, wiping his brow with the sleeve of his shirt and pretended to look up at the hot sun.

"I don't understand why folks don't take me seriously, Indigo?" Darby's line read. Mark reached into his past stage work and remembered the role he played as Tiny Tim. For that he'd had to learn an English working class accent, it was close to the Irish accent he was sure Darby would have, so he used it now. "They all had to come out here at some point and figure out what it takes to survive."

"Not all," Hank said from the other side of the camera.

"Granted ... you were here first, but someone had to teach you. When did you first learn to ride a horse?"

"About the time I stopped drinking my mother's milk," Hank said.

"Oh ... that soon?" Darby's line read. Mark looked up at the 'sky' and put the hat back on his head, pulling one side down at a jaunty angle. "So ... are you gonna teach me?"

"What for ... boy won't be stayin long," Hank said.

"You think I can't handle it?" Darby said. "I got some news for you ... I never quit anything I started. So you teach me to ride and I might let you stay on for a while."

Hank laughed. "Little man thinks he's tough, but we'll see. Yes, I teach you to ride so you can make it back to Tombstone in one piece when you leave."

"Thank you ... but I won't be a goin anywhere," Darby said.

"You Irish, stubborn as an Apache squaw," Hank said.

"Damn sure, just don't forget it ... what's a squaw?"

"Okay, Mark ... that was great," Hank said.

Mark knew that Hank, the director and the studio would look at his screen test before they made any decisions. Films had a multi-million dollar budget, casting was critical to a return on that investment. But Todd had told him that Hank's agency had already begun contract negotiations, it was all coming together very fast.

Hank looked nothing like a Native American. He would have to endure hours of makeup in the transformation. But if his past films were a good indication of his success at assuming different roles, becoming the character Indigo would be a something he would enjoy.

Ralph Prentiss was directing this film, as he had directed the last four blockbusters starring Hank Dobbs in a variety of characters. The teamwork was important to the success, and as Mark handed the hat back to the prop girl he saw Hank and Ralph huddled in the corner.

Mark felt a hand on his shoulder and looked up at Brian. "You did that well, I think Hank wants to tell you something positive today."

"So they're talking it over now, that's pretty soon don't you think?"

"Mark Harrison is a known quantity, it's only a matter of the director's image of the character, and I think Hank controls that too. Producers get what they want, and Hank wants you. Having you in his film means he gets the hottest young star in Hollywood, it means you have drawing power at the box office. And since this is your first film they'll offer you a good salary, but it won't break their budget."

Mark nodded. "Yeah, Todd said something about residuals ... you think they'll do that?"

"They might, leave that up to Todd, that's what you're paying him for," Brian said.

Hank led them to his office a short time later and Mark had to laugh when he saw the room. Shelves filled the walls and each of them held props from past films. Hank was a collector of Hollywood memorabilia. The swords Errol Flynn used in Robin Hood, revolvers from John Wayne films and various hats from a dozen famous heads.

Hank smiled when he saw Mark admiring his collection. "I suppose I went a little overboard with my hobby, but you'd be surprised how well they inspire me sometimes."

Mark nodded. "I have a few teddy bears so far, fan stuff."

"Give it time," Hank said. "So, Ralph and I agree ... you're perfect for the part, will you do it?"

"Yes, I want in," Mark said. "But I don't know anything about horses and all that Western stuff, you guys will have to teach me."

"No, that's actually very good," Hank said. "I had to learn myself some years ago. I think this role is made for you and we'll have a lot of fun. Maybe you can teach me some of that martial arts stuff."

"Brian will come along wherever we go, you can join us in the Tai-chi exercise every morning," Mark said. "You think this is a done deal?"

"We agree, we'll let the agents fight out the details," Hank said. "We'll start the location shooting in two months while they work on the town and ranch sets. We have Betty Anne Parsons, Larry Craig, Steven Thompson and Michael Kane playing bit parts in the film. I think it's going to be a very professional company of players."

"Whoa, impressive cast," Mark said.

Hank smiled. "Yes, we're going to be formidable ... and I can't wait to work with you."

"Me? I'm the rookie."

"Maybe, but you bring fresh energy into the equation," Hank said. "I've done sixteen films in the past ten years and each of them wore me down a little more until I feel like I need something different, that difference is you. I've worked with babies and animals, but never a teenager. I thought this would be new and exciting ... and to tell you the truth, I've had you in mind since I first saw you play Adam in that pilot."

Brian looked over and saw Mark was blushing. He'd never received such high praise from someone he admired so much in the business. Mark would give this film his all and Brian just hoped Hank was ready to receive it.

"So," Hank said, rubbing his hands together. "We're having a cookout next weekend, I want you guys there. Bring dates if you want, bring a few friends. Oh, you can bring that little co-star of yours if you want, Mark ... I know my daughter wants to meet him."

Mark laughed. "Steve? Yeah, he's become a real fan attraction. He's gonna be off the wall when I tell him I'm going to be in a film with you."

Hank nodded. "I'd write him into the script, but I think you guys need to split up and get your careers going. He'll do well on his own because he's got the looks and the talent. Bring him along and I might have a few people he'd like to meet."

Mark nodded. "I will, he'll be there."

Brian drove them home and Mark hit the number four on his speed dial, two rings and Steve picked up.

"Hey, sweetie," Steve said. "How's your day going?"

"All good," Mark said. "What are you and Tim doing?"

"On our way to Long Beach for a little sailing ... wanna join us?"

Mark looked over at Brian. "They're going out on the boat, can we join them?"

"Sure," Brian said, "We can get there in about thirty minutes."

"Okay, we'll be there in thirty, Steve."

"Cool, Tim already has dinner plans for the four of us ... see ya."

Mark hung up. "They're waiting, seems Tim has dinner planned for us as well. I'm so glad Steve's mom is aware of what they have going on."

Brian nodded, turning onto the 405 and heading south to Long Beach. "I think Steve called his own shots for that deal, I bet Jean has her hands full."

Mark laughed. "Maybe it's because she has a tummy full, I don't know if I could handle a little sister."

"So ... you going to tell Steve what happened today?"

"I have to, and not just because of Hank's cookout. He'll be jealous, I know that much, but his chance is coming. Maybe he will meet someone that likes him for a role. I sure didn't expect Hank to offer me a part."

"And what do you think we ought to do about that 'bring a date' comment, people are going to wonder sooner or later," Brian said.

"Yeah, Steve and I talked about that last week too. We have a whole fan cub full of girls if we need escorts, but I think we need to hold off on that unless it's an emergency situation." Mark laughed. "Now if I win a best supporting actor nomination for Hank's film I'll find a date."

Brian laughed as well. "Yeah, that might do it. You could very well win something like that."

"Jeez, I was joking," Mark said.

"I'm not," Brian replied.

The rest of the ride was pretty quiet, Mark was lost in thought. It wasn't until they parked and walked down the pier that Mark snapped out of his reverie. Captain Steve was waiting, and Mark knew the boy was destined for his own fame and fortune. Together they shared this silly television show, but Steve would find a film role of his own very soon.

They all shared hugs and Tim smiled. "Got a phone call last night, we're going to have company in a few weeks."

"Oh? Who's coming to town?" Brian asked.

"Namuko is bringing Kenji and Edward for a visit. He wants them to see the U.S."

"Sweet, that's awesome," Mark said.

"I thought maybe you boys would like to show them around a bit on the weekends, it probably won't be until the end of September. I know they'll be interested in your studio work," Tim said.

"I think we can arrange that," Brian said.

"Oh, yeah ... I have some good news too," Mark said. "Hank Dobbs is casting me in his next film."

"Oh Wow," Steve yelled, "That's great."

He gave Mark a hug while Tim and Brian shared a glance. Both men knew of Steve's desire to be in films, Mark had just made it there first.

Mark held Steve back at arm's length. "There's only one boy in the film or I would have made sure you got into it too. But Hank likes your work, he said so. And next weekend he's having a cookout, and wants you and Tim to be there. Says he'll introduce you to people that can make a difference in your career."

Steve nodded and Mark could see the tears forming in his eyes. "Thanks for thinking of me."

Mark nodded. "I can't ever forget you, Steve. I have it all figured out, and someday you're going to be a bigger star in films than I will ever be ... I mean that."

Steve smiled and wiped his eyes. "Maybe, I'm just happy for you. Let's go sailing."


On to Chapter Seventeen

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"Adam Conquers Earth" Copyright © 2011 Chris James. All rights reserved.
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