Text/[U.S.] S. Kubrick, F. Raphael
Translated/Wang Wei
interior, the residence of Bill and Alice, the living room, at night,
this is the one before Christmas A day of the week. In this comfortable apartment in West Central Park, the Christmas tree has been decorated, and open Christmas cards are displayed everywhere. On the couch in the living room, 7-year-old Helena and her nanny, a young female college student, were sitting on the couch in the living room. They were watching TV.
Bedroom
Bill Harford and Alice Harford, a happy and attractive couple in their 30s, are preparing costumes for a banquet in the evening.
Alice (looking in the mirror): How do I look?
Bill: You look great.
Alice: Is my hair okay?
Bill: Very good.
Alice: You haven't watched it yet.
Bill (kissing her neck): Your hair is flawless, you have always been beautiful.
Alice: Oh, shut up... Okay, let's go.
They walked into the living room and the nanny stood up.
Babysitter: Oh, you look so-cute, Mrs. Harford.
Alice (laughing): Thank you, Rose. (To Helena) Are you ready for bed?
Helena: Ready, mom. I have taken a shower and brushed my teeth.
Impromptu performance-Bill and Alice kissed Helena approvingly and said goodbye.
Babysitter: When do you want Helena to sleep?
Helena: Please mother, let me go to bed later tonight and watch TV programs for a while, please.
Alice: What time is the show?
Helena: Half past ten.
Alice: Okay dear, but only tonight.
Helena: Thank you mom.
The intercom in the apartment rang. Bill walked over to answer.
Doorman (voice): Doctor Harford?
Bill: It's me.
Doorman (voice): The car has arrived.
Bill: Okay, we will get down right away.
Bill went back to the living room.
Bill: Okay-the car is coming, let's go. (To the nanny) Ross, we may be back later, but I will take you home by car.
Babysitter: Oh, that's great, Dr. Harford, thank you very much.
Impromptu performance-expressing good night to each other, wishing a happy stay, etc.
Exterior/interior, downstairs at Harford's house, in the taxi, in the night
car, Bill holds Alice's hand and winks at her with love.
Exterior view, the Ziegler House building in the city center. At night,
Bill's car stopped behind a stretched limousine.
Car, interior view The
taxi driver handed a card to Bill.
Driver: Can you sign here, doctor?
The doorman held an umbrella and opened the door for them.
Bill (signature): Okay, thank you...
Driver: Thank you. (Handing over his business card) If you want a car, just call me about half an hour in advance.
Bill: Okay, okay.
Driver: I wish you a happy evening.
Bill and Alice stepped out of the car and walked in the door.
Interior view, Ziegler's house, night
Large gatherings are already underway. We can hear the dance music played by the band, and there are still many guests coming in one after another. The two young ladies sitting at a table confirmed that Dr. Harford and his wife were the guests on the invitation list. Their coats were kept by the waiter. The host of the party, Victor Ziegler, a moderately tall, dark-skinned, about 55-year-old man and his wife Irona, a beautiful Hungarian woman, were standing at the entrance of the hall to greet the guests.
Ziegler (loudly, trying to cover the noise around): Bill! ...Alice! ...I'm so glad you are here, it's great to see you both.
Impromptu performance-they continued to greet each other, shaking hands and kissing on the cheeks.
Ziegler: Oh Alice, my dear, please forgive my poor clichés, but you look so beautiful.
Victor Ziegler and Alice smiled at each other knowingly.
Ziegler: Bill, how is the orthopedist you introduced to me? He is very good. You should really look at my serve now.
Bill: Of course, he is the highest level in the world.
In another gorgeous room,
Bill and Alice passed through the fashionable crowd with champagne and stopped in front of a 17-foot-tall Christmas tree to admire the lanterns and antiques and other decorations on it.
In the ballroom, Bill and Alice are dancing.
Bill's attention is attracted by a musician on the stage.
Bill: I really don't believe it...
Alice: What don't you believe?
Bill: The piano player. His name is Nick Nightingale, and we used to be classmates in medical school.
Alice: For a doctor, he plays quite well.
Bill: He is not a doctor now. He dropped out of school. I have to go over and say hello to him.
Alice: Okay, I will pour some champagne.
Bill: We met at the bar.
When the band finished playing and took a break, Bill walked to the stage.
Bill: Nick! ...Nick Nightingale!
Nick: Hi! Bill Harford! It's amazing. How are you?
Impromptu performance-they shake hands and greet each other.
Bill: God, how long has it been since?
Nick: Ten years?
Bill: More than that.
Nick: How is your life?
Bill: It's okay. You have become a pianist.
Nick: That's what my friends call me.
Bill (laughs): How come you are playing here tonight?
Nick: I know the janitor here, and he doesn't need superb skills.
They all laughed.
Nick: How are you, still working as a doctor?
Bill: You know-one day as a doctor, and a lifetime as a doctor.
Nick: And in my case, I have never been a doctor, and I will never be a doctor. You won't know what's going on.
Bill: I never understand why you left the college.
Nick: Don't understand? This feeling is very good, for this feeling I am happy with everything.
The band leader came over and nodded to Nick, and Bill made a polite smile.
Nick: Well, we have to separate again. If you leave first today, I will be here for the past two weeks, performing at the "Sonata" cafe. Come if you have time.
Bill (nodding): "Sonata" Cafe, oh, okay — okay, it's great to see you.
Nick: Me too. Take care of yourself.
The band began to play again. The ballroom was very crowded, and Bill walked along the edge of the dance floor to the bar. Alice is waiting for him at the bar. She absent-mindedly reached for the champagne glass...find that she was holding—or rather, touching—a man's hand.
Alice (smiling): I thought it was my wine glass.
Zabo: I am absolutely sure of that.
Zabo is a handsome man, about 45 years old, with some Central European accent. He slowly drank the champagne in Alice's glass-while he was drinking, he looked straight into Alice's eyes.
Zabo: Have you read "The Art of Love" by the Latin poet Ovid?
Alice: Did he cry bitterly in a terrible place, and did it all by himself?
Zabo: But he also had a good start, and had a very good life-by the way, my name is Sandor Zabo, a Hungarian.
Alice: Nice to meet you. My name is Alice, American.
Zabo: Do you want to dance, Alice?
Alice glanced across the room and stared at Bill who was talking to two beautiful models.
Alice: Why not? -Sandor.
At the other end of the room, Bill and the model
Gail, the taller model, shouted to Bill while the music was loud—
Gail: Does anyone like you? (More loudly) No one likes you, is that a problem?
Bill: It should be said that no one wants to admit how much he likes me. But I believe someone will tell me.
Gal (laughs): Do you know Nuara Winsol?
When Gail asked, one arm was wrapped around her friend's waist.
Bill (smiling): Nuara... I seem to follow my feelings... How did you spell your name, Nuara?
Nuara: N...U...A...L...A.
Bill: Is this the name of a Hawaiian?
Nuara: No, it's the name of a broker.
They all laughed.
Gail: You were kind to her once.
Bill: Just once? It sounds like a mistake.
Nuara: I was taking pictures that time, doing a model show in Rockefeller Plaza. It was very windy that day, and you happened to pass there.
Bill (remembering): Did you get something in your eyes?
Nuara: It seems to be somewhere on Fifth Avenue. You were such a gentleman that time.
Bill: I was in a hurry, it's easy to forget.
Nuara: You actually have a handkerchief-and it's so clean!
Bill: Sometimes I am just that kind of hero!
Alice and Sandor are dancing. He hugged her tightly.
Sandor: What do you do, Alice?
Alice: Oh, actually, I'm looking for a job now. I worked as an editor in a publishing house, but they went bankrupt.
Zabo: Maybe I can give you some help. I know some people in the publishing industry.
Alice did not answer.
Zabo: So, are you married?
Alice showed him her wedding ring.
Zabo: Did you come with your husband tonight?
Alice: Yes. Actually...
Zabo: It's sad.
Alice put on an expression of "that is life".
Zabo: But of course I should have guessed it. If you were not with your husband, you would not be so cautious tonight.
Alice laughed.
Zabo: Can I ask why a beautiful woman who can own any man in this room wants to get married?
Alice: You can ask.
Zabo: You know why women usually get married, you know?
Alice: Why don't you tell me.
Zabo: This is the only way for them to lose their virginity and then do whatever they want with other men-with men they really like.
Alice: Interesting.
Zabo: Victor and Irona have some wonderful art collections.
Alice: They have some, don't they.
Zabo: Have you seen the impressionist works upstairs?
Alice: I don't think so.
Zabo: There are a few wonderful works by Bernard (Note 2).
Alice: Really?
Zabo: Do you like Bernal?
Alice: Yes, I like it.
Zabo: Would you like me to take you to see it?
Alice: Okay, maybe not now.
Zabo: We will not go for long.
Alice smiled and shook her head.
Bill and the model continued to
lead Bill slowly to the door.
Nuara: Do you know what is good about being a doctor?
Bill: It's usually much less than people think.
Nuara: It is knowledgeable!
Bill: They are very knowledgeable-on all kinds of things.
Gail: But I would bet they worked too hard, I bet they lost a lot of fun.
Bill: You are right. Where are we going, girls?
Nuara (laughs): Go to where the rainbow ends.
Bill was a little discouraged.
Gail: You don't want to go where the rainbow ends?
Bill: Should I go where the rainbow ends?
Before he could answer, a tall man walked up like a godfather. This is Harris, Victor Ziegler's assistant.
Harris: I'm sorry, Doctor Harford. Can I trouble you for a while?
Bill: Of course you can.
Harris (nodding to the door): Could you give me a minute, please?
Bill: Upstairs?
Harris: Would you please go up with me?
Gail (laughs): It's for some of my business.
Bill: All right.
Gail: Come back quickly.
The girls blew kisses to Bill. Bill smiled.
Alice and Zabo dancing together, continue
Zabo: Alice, you are a charming woman.
Alice put on an expression of "indifferent".
Zabo: I really hope to see you again.
Alice: I think this is not a good idea.
Zabo: You are so cruel. How about having lunch together before the weekend?
Bill and Harris, the
sound of music in the ballroom downstairs from the corridor-stairs is isolated. Harris stopped in front of a door and knocked gently.
Ziegler (outside the painting): Who?
Harris: It's me, Harris, sir.
After a few seconds, there was a sound of a key unlocking. The door slowly opened, and Ziegler appeared barefoot in shorts and an undershirt.
Ziegler: I am very grateful for you, Bill.
He gestured for Bill to walk in. Harris waited outside.
A stunningly beautiful half-naked girl in her 20s was lying on her back, her clothes scattered on the floor.
Bill: What happened?
Ziegler: She passed out after taking cocaine.
Ziegler pointed to the cocaine items on the bedside table.
Bill (checking her pulse): How long has it been like this?
Ziegler: Maybe ten minutes?
Bill reached out to touch her carotid artery.
Bill: Has it happened before?
Ziegler: Not so sure, but it is possible.
Bill turned the girl's face, looked at a lamp on the table, and checked her pupils. The girl convulsed a little.
Bill: She is waking up.
The girl made some incomprehensible sounds.
Bill took her wrist again and looked at his watch.
Bill: Okay... Then, I don't think there is anything particularly worrying about. Cocaine will evaporate in about half an hour.
Ziegler looked a little relieved.
Bill (continues to look at her quietly): Someone should stay with her until she fully recovers.
Ziegler: Okay.
Bill: It's a good idea to put some cold towel on her face.
Ziegler: Okay.
Bill: Is there anyone here with her who can take her home?
Ziegler: I will take care of her... She is a friend of our family.
Bill nodded and looked at her longer. Then he seems to be leaving...
Bill: She will be fine, Victor. Okay, I'll leave it to you next, right?
Ziegler: Of course...Listen, Bill. I don't know how to express my gratitude enough.
Bill: Nothing, I'm glad to be helpful.
Ziegler: Besides, Bill—I know I don’t have to say, I believe this is only known to the two of us.
Bill: Of course.
Ballroom
Bill returned to the ballroom. He looked around for the two models, but could not find them.
Then...a woman's arm slid over his body.
He looked down and saw the hand with the wedding ring-this was Alice.
She was a little excited, very happy to find him.
Alice: Haven't I seen you anywhere before?
Bill: Maybe. What's your name again?
She kissed him.
Alice: Are we going home now?
Bill and Alice’s bedroom. At night
Alice was standing naked in front of the mirror on the dressing table applying cream. Bill came behind her, kissed her shoulders, and gently stroked her breasts with his hands.
Voiceover: This night, they are more intense and full of joy than ever before.
Continuous shots illustrate the content of the voice-over.
Get up
Alice and Helena are in the kitchen.
Bill and his patients are in the office.
Voiceover: It's just that the morning light awakened them prematurely. Alice had to send Helena to school. Bill also had a lot of appointments for medical treatments, so the few hours in the evening passed through routine, day-to-day work, and the things in the middle of the night were long ago. It's already dull.
Bill's apartment, Helena's bedroom,
Helena read aloud "Children's Poetry Garden" to Bill and Alice at night . She yawned after she finished reading.
Bill: Now, my dear, it's time to go to bed. Are you okay?
Helena smiled and hugged Bill.
Bill and Alice kissed her good night, turned off the lights and walked into the living room.
Alice sighed relaxedly.
Alice: So, what do you think of packing some gifts?
Bill: No. We can do it tomorrow.
Bill fell headlessly on the couch, picked up the TV remote control and started to change channels.
Alice snuggled him.
Alice: Is there anything good tonight?
Bill: Did you get the newspaper?
Alice embraced him in both arms.
Alice: I don't want to watch TV.
They are kissing.
Alice: Let's break a little legal taboo first.
In the bathroom,
Bill took out a Bundy pill box from the bathroom medicine cabinet and a small plastic bag from it.
In the bedroom,
Alice skillfully rolled up two marijuana cigarettes.
After a few minutes
Bill and Alice sat on the bed half-naked, smoking marijuana.
Alice was lying on her back and smoking marijuana, with an ashtray on her knees. She smoked a little too much.
Alice: How about let's play the truth-telling game?
Bill: There is some danger in smoking marijuana.
Alice: Isn't that just fun?
Bill: I'll just follow your mercy.
Alice: Shall we start with those two beautiful women at the party last night?
Bill: I really don't understand. It was one of them who spoke to me first.
Alice: I thought they might be your patients?
Bill: No such luck. They are models. One of them said that I had cleared something from her eyes on a windy day in Rockefeller Plaza.
Alice: Always at work.
Bill: That's me.
Alice: So what do they want from you this time?
Bill: My body-what else?
Alice didn't find such words funny.
Bill: Hi, forget it-I just chatted with them for a while... Then, who is the man who danced with you?
Bill is not interested in this, but just wants to change the topic-
Alice: Sandor?
Bill: Sandor... who is he?
Alice: A friend of Ziegler's.
Bill: What does he do?
Alice: I really don't know anything.
Bill: A rich man?
Alice: He seems to be.
Bill: So what does he want to do?
Alice: Sex. Go upstairs. Go upstairs just then.
Marijuana makes Alice think this is amusement.
Bill: Okay, I think this is understandable.
Alice: Understandable?
Bill: Yes, you are a beautiful woman.
Alice: Oh, I understand. After such a thing, does it mean that every man I meet wants me?
Bill: There may be some exceptions.
Alice: Does that also mean that all men-although there are exceptions-they want beautiful women when they meet, whether they are married or not?
Bill: I think, basically, that's it.
Alice: That means you want those two models too?
Bill: I said there are some exceptions.
Alice: Of course-you are the exception?
Bill: Yes.
Alice: Why?
Bill: Because I love you.
Alice: Is there any other reason?
Bill: Because we are married.
Alice: Anything else?
Bill: Also because I don't want to lie to you or hurt you.
Alice: So basically, the reason why you didn't play with those two models... was because you considered me. If it weren't for me, you would do it.
Bill: Hi, is this a televised court debate?
Bill pretended to look around, looking for the camera.
Alice: Why don't you give me a direct answer?
Bill: Hi, all right, sweetheart. Marijuana makes you a little too much.
He took her cigarette and squeezed it out.
Alice: I didn't overdo it at all-what do you think you made me...
Bill: Okay, okay, okay.
Alice: Now you should try to tell the truth. When those really good-looking women come to your clinic for an examination and show their breasts in front of you, have you ever thought of asking them?
Bill: Okay, let me go. I am a doctor. I have always been very sensible about such things. And in any case, I promise to require a nurse to be present.
Alice: You are making excuses. When you touch their breasts, is there nothing but pure professional ethics?
Bill: Basically, it's the same.
Alice: Just basically?
Bill: Oh, that's all right. Nothing is absolute.
Alice: There is no absolute... Okay. Of course it's good... Then what would happen to a woman if something like this happened—when their nipples were pinched, your female patients would want to know how you reacted there?
Bill: Certainly not.
Alice: Then why?
Bill (laughs): Because what they worry about is: I might find out that they have grown something.
Alice: You know what I mean.
Bill: No, stop talking. Most of them are not like that.
Alice: Why?
Bill: All right. I think most women are different from men in general.
Alice: Oh, yes—I forgot. This is the result of millions of years of evolution-is it? Men should shoot their semen into the bodies of all women they can do that, while women can only stay at home and take care of their children?
Bill: It's too simplistic, but it's kind of like this.
A frustrated smile crossed Alice's face.
Alice: Oh, don't think that only you men know.
The expression in her eyes changed, becoming cold and undetectable. Bill took her hand and slid it on his body.
Bill: What do we know-what do you mean?
Alice (in an unusually stern voice): As for what you imagine, my dear.
Bill: Hi, Alice. Hi, look at me... the truth. Is this what you know from me?
Alice lowered her head with a strange smile on her face.
Bill (laughs): You are making me angry.
Alice: Do whatever you want.
Bill: Let me do it? Wait a moment. I won't let you do that...seriously...have you not told me anything?
Alice wanted to speak but stopped.
Bill: Tell me.
Alice nodded.
Alice: Okay. Last summer at Cape Cod (Note 3)-I think you must have forgotten that one night in the restaurant, there was a young naval officer sitting next to us with two officers beside him.
Bill: Honestly, I forgot, what happened to him?
Alice: The waiter brought him a note at dinner, and when he left the table-
Bill waited for her to continue.
Alice: Oh... I saw him for the first time in the lobby that morning. He was checking in, and then followed the doorman who was transporting his luggage to the elevator entrance. He glanced at me when he walked past me, but didn't stop. After walking a few steps, he turned and looked at me again. He said nothing or laughed. In fact, I think he is still stern with me. Maybe I am the same. (Pauses for a moment) My mood was disturbed by him. I lay on the beach for a whole day, dreaming.
She stopped.
Bill: Go on.
Alice thought about how to continue.
Bill stared at her.
Alice: You made love to me that afternoon, and we talked about our future, our children. Later we sat on the balcony, and he walked over under our balcony without looking up. But his gaze disturbed me, and I thought if he wanted me, I would definitely not refuse. I think I am ready to abandon you, our children, all my future. At the same time—I don’t know if you can understand—when I touch your forehead and kiss your hair, my love for you at that moment is tender and sad. I wore a white rose at dinner, and you said I was beautiful. It was not a coincidence, because he and his friend were sitting next to us. He did not look up, but in fact I always wanted to stand up and walk to his side, just like in a movie, and said to him: "I am coming, my love-you are the one I have been waiting for, take me Let's go"-Oh, that was when a waiter gave him a note. He looked, his face turned pale, said goodbye to his friend, gave me a mysterious glance, and left the restaurant. (Pauses for another moment) I stayed up all night that night, and when I woke up in the morning, I was still disturbed. I don’t know if I’m still worried about whether he’s gone...I didn’t realize that he had left until breakfast, and I was relieved.
Long silence.
Bill: What if he didn't leave?
Alice did not answer immediately.
Alice: I don't know.
Bill said nothing, but there was a contemptuous expression on his mouth.
The phone rings.
Bill: Hello? ...Oh...when did they call? ... No, I have an address... If they call again, they will say that I am already on the road.
He hung up the phone and started putting on shoes.
Bill: Law Nathanson just died.
Alice: Oh, that's too bad. But that's exactly what you expected, isn't it?
Bill: Yes... (begins to put on clothes) I have to go for a while.
Alice: Now?
Bill: I must show up.
Bill got dressed quietly.
Alice: Obviously, telling you this is a mistake.
Bill (coldly): It doesn't matter... We must always be honest with each other.
Alice: That's because of marijuana...
Bill (coldly): It's okay, it's nothing. That is just the imagination of the past.
Exterior view, Marion's apartment building. At night,
Bill's taxi stopped in front of a beautiful apartment building on Fifth Avenue.
The porter opened the door.
Interior view,
Bill walks towards the elevator in the lobby of Marion's apartment .
Inside,
Bill walked out of the elevator in the private elevator hall of Marion's house and found that the door of her house was slightly open.
He knocked gently on the door, and walked in without waiting for a reply.
Bill (softly): Marion?
He walked past the quiet apartment room. The body of Law Nathanson in the
master bedroom
lies on a big bed with oxygen cylinders on both sides and some medicines on the table.
Marion, the daughter of the deceased, a beautiful woman in her 20s, sat on one end of the bed, exhausted, her arms hanging down on both sides of her body. She wanted to stand up, but Bill stopped her gently. She just nodded to him in greeting, her big eyes looked very sad.
Bill walked to the head of the bed and placed his hands mechanically on the forehead and arms of the deceased. He shook his head and shrugged his shoulders a few times, expressing a little regret.
Bill: I hope his last moments are peaceful.
Marion looked at him desperately.
He put his hand in his pocket and looked around the room before finally falling on Marion.
Bill: Well, Marion, at least you are not completely unprepared.
She reached out to him, and he held it sympathetically. Marion sighed sadly.
Marion: Dad seems to be very good today. At about nine o'clock he said he wanted to sleep for a while, so I went into the living room to watch TV. I don't think it took more than half an hour to get out of his room. (Begins crying) When I came back, I thought he was still asleep at first... When I realized that he was no longer breathing... I did everything you told me... But... he... (Can't speak , Shaking my head sadly) I called the people in the emergency center... When they got here, they said he was... dead, and asked if I wanted them to take him away...
She was crying .
Bill took a chair and sat down opposite her.
Bill: Mary, from what you said, it seems that your father died in his sleep. He did not suffer.
Marion: Oh, God, I don’t want...I'm so afraid of things like...death in reality...but it's so easy for people to die...like everything else in my life.
Bill (holding her hand): Have you notified your relatives?
Marion: I called Carl-my fiance.
When she said "fiance", her eyes didn't look at Bill.
Marion: He is calling for me and will be here soon.
Bill: Oh, that's great.
Marien: How many times do I think you have met Karl here? We are planning to get married in April.
Bill: Oh, that's very good, I am happy for you.
For a while, both of them were relatively speechless.
Voiceover: Of course I remember Carl. Then she wants to marry him. Bill thought, I want to know why? She definitely doesn't love him. He looks useless and has no money... He is just a teaching assistant in a certain subject... But now it has nothing to do with me. Also... If she is my lover, her hair will not be so dry, and her lips will be richer and more rosy...
Marion (starts to speak suddenly): Dad has so much worry and disappointment. My mother has always been in poor health...My brother, it is so disappointing...I don't even know where he is now. The last news we heard about him was that he was in a small town in Mexico, and I can't even remember where it was.
Bill put his hand on her head and stroked it lightly. He felt her body beginning to shake, her crying voice grew louder, and finally she burst into tears uncontrollably.
Suddenly, she slipped off her chair and knelt in front of Bill, her arms wrapped around his legs and her face buried in it. She raised her head and stared at him with wide eyes, whispering passionately with wildness and sadness.
Marion: I don’t want to leave here... Even if you never come... Even if I never see you... I think, at least, living near you...
Bill looks a little moved rather than surprised-
Bill: Please Get up, Marion.
He spoke softly, bending over to lift her up gently.
He glanced at the dead man lying on the bed, hugged her very hesitantly, and kissed her forehead.
At the same time, I don't know why, a feeling of anger surged towards Alice.
Vision of jealousy: A picture of Alice and a naval officer.
The doorbell rang.
He hurriedly kissed Marion on the cheek, as if expressing gratitude, and then walked to the door.
Carl is standing there. This is a plain-looking man with an umbrella in his hand and a serious expression on his face that suits the situation. The two greeted each other sincerely, seeming to be acquaintances they had known each other for a long time. They walked to the bedroom. Carl looked embarrassed when he saw the dead.
Carl: Oh, my poor, dear Marion. I'm so sorry.
He put his arm on her.
Bill went into the next room and wrote his death certificate.
After he finished writing, he returned to the master bedroom. The engaged couple held hands and sat beside the deceased's bed.
The doorbell rang.
Carl: I'll open the door.
When he left the room, Marion, looking at the floor, said in a barely audible voice—
Marion: I love you.
Bill just said her name
tenderly — Bill: Marion.
Carl walked in with Marion's uncle and aunt. Their arrival gave Bill a chance to say goodbye. He walked to the door.
Carl: Hope we can see you soon.
Exterior view, Marion's apartment building,
Bill walked outside at night . The weather has become warmer. The gentle breeze blows from the nearby park to the street with an indescribable feeling. Bill took a breath of fresh air.
Concierge: Do you want a taxi?
Bill: No, thank you. I think it's better to take a walk.
Outside, from the street to the park,
Bill walked at night .
Exterior view, park, at night
Bill strolled through the park. He noticed that on the benches in the shadows, a couple of lovers were kissing, as if spring had really come, and there was no danger of hiding in the warm air.
A homeless man lay straight on a bench, covered in newspapers, with a hat over his face.
Voiceover: The image of the tramp reminded him of the deceased who had just left, and he was a little shocked. He felt a little sick when he thought that the corpse was beginning to decay and decompose. He is very happy that he is still alive, these ugly things are still far away from him. In fact, his life is still full of vitality, he has a beautiful wife, and if he wants to have several other women, even though it takes more leisure time to do so.
Bill noticed that a group of men's college students came oncoming, six of them almost filled the entire sidewalk. He walked away to make way for them.
But when they passed him, one of the tall guys in the open coat deliberately hit him with his elbow.
Bill couldn't help but stop. The tall boy continued to walk a few steps and turned around. They were so close, they glared at each other.
Suddenly, Bill turned and walked away. He heard a burst of laughter behind him.
He wanted to turn around and fight them, but he felt his heart beating strangely.
Voiceover: He asked himself if he had become a coward; he also noticed that his knees were shaking a little. It's ridiculous! Why are you involved in a street fight? The opponent has five drunk companions.
Bill walked forward without looking back.
Voiceover: He, a 35-year-old man, a professional physician, the father of a child, and a married man. He may be very high-spirited in the hospital, and tomorrow may be like the tramp just now... Has he considered his career before? Dangers are always hidden there, all the time and everywhere, unless you forget them completely.
Location, street, on the way to Domino's house,
Bill walks at night .
Voiceover: Of course, avoiding a ridiculous fight with a college student is obviously common sense... But if you meet that naval officer, between Alice and him...
a vision of jealousy: A picture of Alice and the naval officer.
Voiceover: What a derangement! After all, nothing happened...what was he thinking? ... But if it was really that bad, she took the initiative to go to bed with him-of course it is possible; to a certain extent, maybe worse-and taught him this as fun...
Location, street -Domino's apartment, at night
Bill passes by a young girl, this is Domino. She followed him and walked with him.
Domino: Hi.
Bill slowed down and looked at her. This is a pretty girl with dark red lipstick.
Bill: Hi.
Domino: How are you?
Bill: Very good. Are you OK?
Domino: I'm great...Listen, do you want to have some fun?
Bill: I'm sorry, what did you say?
Domino: Have some fun. Come in with me? I live there (pointing to a nearby aisle).
Bill (hesitating): Go in with you?
Domino: Yes. It's better than being outside.
Bill: Where do you live?
Domino: Yes.
Bill: Just you?
Domino: I have a roommate, but she is not here. (Holding his arm lightly) It's okay-no one will cause trouble.
Bill smiled, noncommittal.
Domino: It's really okay, come on.
Bill let her lead himself to the door.
Domino (softly): Come on.
Interior view, Domino's apartment-hall, interior view
She led Bill through a narrow, dim aisle, and flashes of light from the back of the neon sign outside shined into the room.
Bill: Should we talk about the price?
Domino: How about 60?
Bill nodded, feeling a little uncomfortable—
Bill: 60, it's okay.
Domino laughed.
Domino (laughs): I have no time limit.
She opened the door and the two walked in.
The house is very clean and tidy, a bit like the old railway apartment.
The girl smiled sweetly, and led Bill into a small bedroom with a clean big bed without a cover.
Bill: By the way, what's your name?
Domino: Domino.
Bill: Domino. This is an unusual name.
Domino: How to say, this is mine, oh...professional name.
Bill: All right.
Domino: What's your name?
Bill hesitated-
Bill: Bill.
Domino: Hi, Bill.
Bill: Hi, Domino.
Domino: Do you want something to drink?
Bill: No, thank you. I'm very good.
She played music.
Bill: Nice little place.
Domino: Yes, very good.
Bill: Is this really where you live?
Domino: You asked me this question for the second time.
Bill: No, it just feels like most girls don't use their own house-there will be too much trouble.
Domino: Yes, but I rarely do.
Bill: Oh, what's going on?
Domino: I only do this when I have too many student loans in arrears.
Bill (somewhat surprised): What school are you going to?
Domino: New York University.
Bill: What are you studying?
Domino: Sociology.
Bill: Is sociology good?
Domino: Pretty good. Have you heard of Pierstein and Johnson?
Bill: To be honest, I don't know much about sociology.
She began to undress slowly.
Domino: What are you doing?
Bill: I am a doctor.
Domino: Doctor?
Bill: Yes.
Domino: General practitioner?
Bill: Yes.
Domino: My father is a general practitioner.
Bill (laughs): Are you kidding me? I don't want to know him.
Domino (laughs): He works in New Jersey.
Bill: New Jersey...
She dropped her pantyhose and threw it on the table.
Bill: Listen, I know it's a bit late now, but would you mind if I ask how old you are?
She straightened her arms and stood naked in front of him.
Domino: What do you think?
Bill: Well, to be honest, I want to say 16 or 17, but obviously you are still in college... 18?
Domino (laughs): 19 years old.
She hugged his neck with her arms and stared into his eyes.
Domino: So, do you start?
Bill's cell phone rang.
He fumbled into his pocket, Domino let go of Bill so that he could take out the phone.
Bill: Hello? (It's Alice) Hi, sweetheart. Yes, everything is fine... I'm not sure... We are waiting for some relatives... Maybe it will be later... No, don't wait for me. It’s not easy to talk... Okay, I will try to... stay here.
He hung up the phone and put it in his pocket.
Domino: Was it Dr. Bill's wife just now?
Bill thought for a moment and nodded, then he sighed and stood up.
Domino (not a problem): You have to go now.
Bill: I'm afraid so.
Domino: It's really embarrassing.
He took out his wallet and began to count 60 dollars.
Domino: Oh, look, you don't have to...
Bill: No, it's okay.
Domino: Really, it doesn't matter.
Bill: No, don't. Listen, we need more and better sociologists.
They all laughed.
Domino: Okay, but you will be free next time.
Bill: It's a deal.
Location, on the way to the "Sonata" cafe, at night
Bill walked aimlessly through the winter streets.
Voiceover: Where am I going now, he asked himself. Obviously go home to go to bed. But he couldn't persuade himself to do that. He wants to go back to find the girl just now, but it is always ridiculous to go back now. He felt that he was getting further and further away from his original daily life trajectory, almost entering another completely different world.
By chance, he passed by a small nightclub, the "Sonata" cafe, and saw Nick Nightingale's name and photo posted outside. He stopped and watched.
The doorman watched.
Doorman: The band is about to end, but it's still open.
Bill nodded and walked in.
Interior view, "Sonata" cafe,
where only a quarter of the customers are seated at night . Bill was sitting at a table near the band.
Nick saw him and blinked at him.
Bill gestured to say hello and asked for a beer.
After the band finished their last song, they bowed slightly to the applause of thanks.
Nick walked to Bill's table.
Nick: Hi, Bill!
Impromptu performance-they shook hands and greeted each other.
The waiter poured beer for Bill.
Bill: What do you drink?
Nick: Scottish wine and soda.
The waiter nodded and walked away immediately.
Nick: Why are you here at this time?
Bill: I happened to pass by here. I have a patient nearby.
Nick: Do you live in the "village" (Note 4) over there?
Bill: No, we have an apartment in West Central Park.
Nick: Are you married?
Bill: Nine years.
Nick: Is it the beautiful woman who danced with you at the party?
Bill: Yes.
Nick: Lucky man.
Bill nodded.
Nick: Do you have children?
Bill: An 8-year-old daughter. How are you?
Nick: I have a wife and 4 boys in Seattle.
Bill: That's great. This is your band?
Nick: No, I'm just filling up the numbers.
Bill: Who do you usually play with?
Nick: Go anywhere with anyone. Actually, I have to catch one tonight.
Bill: Are you going to perform elsewhere tonight?
Nick (shrugs): They start around two o'clock.
Bill: In the "village"?
Nick: Honestly, I don't know where it is yet.
Bill: How do you get there?
Nick: It's in a different place every time, I can only know about an hour ago.
Bill: Is it different every time?
Nick: So far.
Bill (laughs): What is the big answer?
Nick stretched out his palm and looked ignorant.
Nick: I just play the piano.
Bill: What is its nature?
Nick: What is the nature? ...How to say, honestly, it is not easy to say clearly.
Bill: But haven't you been there before?
Nick: Yes.
Bill: How could it not be easy to describe?
Nick: I am a blind bomber.
Bill: What?
Nick: I am a blind bomber.
Something at the door caught Nick's attention.
Nick (stands up): I'll be back soon.
He walked to the window at the entrance of the nightclub and looked at the snowy street outside, but didn't see what he was looking for, so he walked back.
Nick: I'm sorry just now. I have to meet someone here.
Bill: Give you the address?
Nick shrugged and said yes.
Bill: Listen, what you said about blind bombs is made up.
Nick: No, that's true. Their activities are very strict.
Bill: This is getting more and more curious.
Nick: Maybe so, but listen, I vowed to keep it secret, so please, forget everything I told you.
Bill: Nick, you trust me. I won't utter a word to anyone, but now that you have said so much to me, you can't help but continue.
Nick: No, really, it's not a joke. I'm talking about serious matters.
Bill: Nick, you can't do this to me. I will keep thinking about this for the rest of my life. Believe me.
Nick felt uncomfortable doing this, but it was very fatal to say it.
Nick: Well, only you and I know.
Bill: Absolutely no problem.
Nick: Okay. First of all, even though I am a blind bomb, of course I can hear... the sound...
Bill closed his eyes and listened carefully to these stimulating and suggestive words.
Nick: And...for the last time, the blindfold was not worn that tight...
Bill listened carefully.
Nick: Bill... I've seen
a lot of knowledge in my life... but I have never seen a woman like this... Bill: How much does it cost to enter such a place?
Nick: Forget about it.
Bill: What do you mean, "forget these"?
Nick: Forget about it.
Bill: Look, I don't care how much it costs.
Nick: It's not about money. These people are not interested in money. This is a completely confidential matter.
Bill: These people. Who are these people?
Nick: Forget it-if I know their names, as long as I can say them out loud, I would rather give everything.
Bill: Nick, are you exaggerating this matter? There must be a way to get me in.
Nick (shaking his head): That is too dangerous.
Bill: Danger?
Nick: This is not the kind of person you can deal with them—unless you are also black and white.
Nick saw someone looking into the room through the glass window.
Nick: I'll be back soon.
He stood up and walked quickly to the street outside. Bill looked through the window. He crouched and stepped on his feet to talk to a man in the cold weather, and wrote something down.
Nick walked back and kept rubbing his hands.
Bill looked at him inquisitively.
Bill: Is it the address?
Nick: And the password.
Bill: Password?
Nick: Yes. You can't go in without a password, and they change the password every time. Listen, I have to go to work soon.
Bill (talking and laughing): Nick, you guy, you know you can take me with me tonight, right?
Nick sighed and shook his head.
Bill: Look, let me tell you—you give me the password and address, and I will go there by myself. It won't hurt you in any way, certainly not.
Nick hesitated.
Nick: Look, even if I really told you so crazy, you can't go in the clothes you wear anyway.
Bill: Why not?
Nick: Each of them wears masks and costumes.
Bill: Wearing masks and costumes?
Nick: It has always been like this.
Bill (looks at his watch): Okay, it's too late. But I know there may be a place still open.
Nick: Bill, you are crazy. No clothing store is still open this late.
Bill: Look, Nick, it doesn't matter, you just give me a chance and let me try. If I can't find the mask and costume, I will forget the whole thing. Guaranteed by reputation.
It looks like Nick is ready to compromise.
Bill: All right?
Nick sighed and obeyed.
Bill: Alright, that's it, you give me the address and password. Tell me what kind of clothes I need?
Outside view, the bustling Greenwich Village Street,
Bill's taxi stops in front of a clothing rental shop at night . The billboard read: "Dresses and costumes."
The store door is closed.
Bill: Damn it.
He thought for a moment, then stepped out after paying the driver. He noticed another billboard that read: "Press the doorbell of apartment No. 3 in an emergency." He looked up and saw a light on the upper floor of the apartment.
He rang the doorbell of apartment No. 3, which had his name-Gibson written on it. After the bell rang a few times, a voice came from the intercom.
Gibson: I’m Gibson, who are you?
Bill speaks to the security camera-
Bill: Mr. Gibson?
Gibson: What do you want to do?
Bill: Mr. Gibson, I'm sorry to disturb you at this time. I am a doctor. My last name is Harford. I want to see you, there are important things.
Bill held up his New York State medical license to the security camera.
Gibson: Who was injured?
Bill: No one is injured, but it's just as important.
Gibson: How important is it?
Bill: It would be better if I could go upstairs and talk to you for a while.
Gibson: It is better for you to come tomorrow.
Bill: Mr. Gibson, tomorrow is too late. I really want to see you now, it won't be long.
There was silence. Then there was a buzzing sound of opening the door.
Bill opened the door and walked up the stairs in two steps.
A door opened, but there was still a safety catch. A man in his 50s who wore a heavy bathrobe over his flannel pajamas peered out from the door, his eyes and behavior like a crappy actor from a roadside touring troupe.
Bill: Mr. Gibson?
Gibson: I am.
Bill held up his New York State medical license again—
Bill: Good evening, Mr. Gibson. This is my New York State Medical License, so you know who I am.
Gibson (looks at the license, then at Bill): Okay, then you are Dr. Harford. What is going on here?
Bill: Mr. Gibson, it’s not so easy for you to understand how urgent this matter is, but...I need...a set of costumes and evening gowns...
Gibson (staring at him distrustfully): You need a set of costumes and An evening dress?
Bill: Yes.
Gibson: I'm sorry-you really want me to open the store for you, at this time?
Bill: I can imagine how troublesome this is for you, Mr. Gibson. But I am willing to pay another two hundred dollars as compensation.
Gibson did not answer.
Bill: What do you think?
Judging from Gibson's expression, this sounds pretty good.
Interior view, clothing rental shop.
Later in the night , Gibson took Bill to the dimly lit prop clothing area.
Gibson: Okay, now let me speak directly. You want an evening gown, a black priest's uniform, and a mask that completely covers your face, don't you?
Bill: That's it.
Gibson: I have to tell you the doctor that every day someone makes some weird requests to me, and you are one of them.
Bill: There is always a reason.
Gibson: Yes, you are a doctor (smiling secretly at your punch line).
Suddenly, Bill heard the sound of a glass coming from somewhere in front of him.
Gibson pressed a light switch. A small office appeared at the end of the aisle, where the tables were full of plates, glasses and bottles. Two Japanese men, wearing blonde wigs and wearing nothing but Japanese kimonos, jumped up from the chairs near the table. At the same time, a pretty half-naked girl got under the table.
Gibson strode forward, crossed the table and grabbed one of them by the wig. At the same time, the girl, perhaps 14 years old, got out of the table quickly, ran over to Bill's side along the tunnel, and crashed into his arms.
Gibson dropped the wig and caught the two men in kimonos, and at the same time shouted to Bill outside—
Gibson: Please catch the girl for me.
The girl hugged Bill tightly, seeming to be sure that he was her protector now. Her smiling little face is covered with powder, and her eyes still have a mischievous look.
Gibson (calling): Sir, I want to call the police, please stay here.
Kimono Wearer One: Gibson, are you crazy?
Second person wearing kimono: We were invited by the little girl.
Gibson: You will have a chance to explain all this. Didn't you see that this girl is a little confused? (Turns to face Bill) I'm sorry to keep you waiting.
Bill: All right.
Bill looked down at the girl with a kind of fascination, and the girl looked at him with charming and childish eyes, as if enchanted.
The two men in kimono began to quarrel with each other in Japanese...
Gibson turned to Bill-
Gibson: I'm sorry, did you mean you want a brown or black priest's uniform?
Bill: It's black.
Maiden (eyes gleaming): No, you must give this gentleman a mink cloak and red silk tights.
Gibson (to the girl): Don't move there. (Bill) What size are you?
Bill: I wear a size 38 jacket.
Gibson took out a brown priest's uniform from the side and held it in his hand, waiting for Bill's approval--
Gibson: This one will suit you.
Bill: Okay.
Gibson: Okay, let's try the evening dress again... The
two Japanese stayed in the office separated by glass.
Gibson locked them in the room.
The first one in a kimono: Gibson, this is too shameful! You must let us out right away.
Gibson: I'm afraid that is impossible, gentlemen. Now this is a matter for the police. You have to stay here obediently and wait for me to come back.
Impromptu performance-the two Japanese men are still protesting; the girl gently jumps up the stairs in front of them.
Gibson: Go to bed right now, you depraved thing. I will solve them and talk to you immediately.
The girl shook her head sadly at Bill and went out.
Interior view, in the props clothing area in front of the clothing rental store. Later,
Bill had changed into a black semi-formal evening gown, waiting for Gibson to fill out the receipts. His clothes and prop costumes are placed in two large plastic shopping bags.
Gibson: Okay, the rent is 150, the deposit is 300, plus 200 for special services. The total is 650 yuan.
Bill: Yes.
Bill handed him his credit card and driver's license.
Gibson: I prefer cash.
Bill: I'm sorry, I didn't bring that much money.
Gibson took the credit card.
Bill: Thank you. Also, by the way-I hope you don't be too harsh with your children.
Gibson: I'm sorry, doctor. But even I don't know what you are doing.
Bill: Well, it's just that at first you said your child was a little confused, and then you said she was depraved and depraved. These things are a bit contradictory.
Gibson (rather dramatic): So, aren't insanity and depravity the same in God's heart?
The last thing Bill wants to do now is to argue with Gibson, so he answers in his most professional way.
Bill: Well, no matter what, you can do something to make things better. Maybe we can discuss this issue tomorrow.
Gibson smiled sarcastically and said nothing.
Location, outside the clothing rental shop. At night,
Bill took the big plastic bag with those clothes and called a taxi. He looked carefully at the note with the address written on it.
Bill: How about going to the "Sand Point" on Long Island?
The driver made a face.
Bill: How about adding 20 in addition to the price?
Taxi driver (shaking his head): Then I have to drive back empty.
Bill: How about 50?
Taxi driver: 50 is fine.
Location, various taxis/cars,
Brooklyn Bridge at night (shooting in two groups). highway.
Interior scene, Bill in the taxi,
voice-over at night : Bill thought-"I must be crazy" and the like.
Location, Long Island Building Road, at night the
taxi slowly drove into a densely treed road.
Taxi
Nebil looked at the buildings outside the car. In the front, he saw a stretched limousine with the curtain pulled up into a large iron gate, with a gatehouse on each side of the gate.
As their car slowly passed the gate, Bill saw the sign saying "Bletchley Manor" on it.
Bill: Okay, the driver—this is it. Stop by the road.
The taxi stopped. Bill took out his wallet with the counter at 75.50 dollars.
Bill: Okay, this is 86, and...
Bill carefully tore a one-hundred-dollar bill in two and gave one to the driver.
Bill: I promise you that you have fifty in addition to the price of the counter. Now you hold this half; if you wait for me to come back, you can get the other half, and then go back and add the counter. Money, all right?
The driver gave Bill a wary look.
Driver: How long will it take you?
Bill: That's the question-I can't be sure. It may be ten minutes, or it may be about an hour. But you see, I leave everything here, okay?
The driver took the half-hundred-yuan bill——
Driver: OK.
Bill got out of the taxi, put on a priest's uniform, put his coat on his shoulders, and walked through the gate.
Location, the gate, the
big iron gate is closed at night , there is no one. The security camera was facing him.
The road to the manor was twisted and twisted and stretched out to a small forest surrounding the manor house.
Bill rang the bell on the side of the door, and two people immediately walked out of the house.
Doorman (polite and decent): Good morning, sir.
Bill: Good morning.
Doorman: Can we help you?
Bill: I think you want a password?
Doorman: If you don't mind, sir.
Bill (slowly): Federio Rainbow...
Guardian: Thank you, sir.
The door opened.
Doorman: Is the taxi parked there yours, sir?
Bill: Oh-yes, yes. My driver suddenly got the flu.
Doorman: A taxi can take you directly to the door of the building.
Bill: Listen, I'm very lucky to be here, that guy just came from Bulgaria.
Bill grinned reluctantly, ignoring the slight change in the expression on the guard's face.
Doorman: (pointing to a car): Excuse me to get in this car, sir. We will send you directly to it.
Bill: Okay, thank you.
They got into the car.
The second doorman stayed at the gate.
Interior view, Car
Bill sits quietly next to the driver.
Viewpoint: Long Island-Manor House-Night.
The car drove towards the house.
Interior, car
door guard (veteran): Now may be the best time for you to put on your mask, sir.
Bill (arbitrarily): Oh, yes, of course.
Bill took the mask out of his pocket and put on it.
Exterior view, manor house, the
car stopped at night , and Bill walked out.
Bill: Thank you.
He walked up the stone steps. When I reached the gate, the door opened automatically.
Interior, manor, house
Bill walked into a large, mirror-filled lobby with candles all around. Two servants in black suits and gray masks whispered together.
Servant: Password?
Bill: Federio Rainbow.
Servant: Thank you, sir.
One of them caught his coat, and the other opened a door for him.
Bill walked into a long room with candlelight flickering; the ceiling was very high and the walls were covered with black silk. The doors on each side are lined with mirrors, making the room seem to be enlarged. There were about 50 men and women dressed as priests and nuns, their faces completely hidden by masks.
The Italian-style worship music played by instruments that do not know where is gradually gaining strength.
When his eyes got used to the dim light, Bill saw that the women were completely naked, with black veils floating down their heads. Bill's eyes range from gorgeous and enchanting women to slender women, from delicate and delicate women to plump and rich women, and he has a desire that cannot be expressed.
Occasionally, when those people's eyes turned to him, as soon as they met his gaze, they immediately turned away.
A priest passed him and touched him, nodding to him; in the eyes behind the mask, Bill felt a look of inquiry and insight.
A strange and strong perfume smell, like the scent of a southern garden, permeated the whole room.
Another man's arm touched him, but this time it was a nun. Her face was completely covered, like other women, completely nude, and the black transparent veil floated from the tie on her head.
Woman: You don't belong here, you still have another chance to leave.
Bill was nervous for a while, but at the same time he was attracted by the beauty and sexiness of this woman.
Bill: I'm very sorry, but I think you have admitted the wrong person.
Woman: Please don't be silly here and leave here as soon as possible.
Bill: Who are you?
Woman: It doesn't matter, you must leave.
Bill: Will you go with me?
Woman: This is impossible.
Bill: Impossible?
Woman: Impossible.
Bill: Can we go somewhere else here?
Woman: Absolutely not. Please believe me, if you are found, you will be in trouble.
Bill approached her, but she took a few steps back.
Another woman: What's the matter, why don't you dance?
Bill saw two men watching him from another corner, and he guessed that this woman was arranged by them to test him. He smiled.
Bill: I would love to dance.
But at this moment, the woman just returned. She pretended that she heard what he said just now, and spoke in a volume that both men could hear—
woman: finally back. (Laughs) All your efforts are in vain, I know you.
Then, she turned to the other woman and whispered to her—
woman: let me be with him first—just for a while.
The other woman agreed with a smile, and walked lightly to the two men who were watching.
Woman: Don't ask any questions, don't be surprised by anything. I have tried to fool them, but you can't fool them for long. Before it's too late, go quickly-be careful not to let people follow you, don't let people know who you are, or you won't be at peace. Go!
Bill: Will we meet again?
Woman: No way.
He grabbed her hand and pulled her closer—
Bill: I must see you again.
Woman (whispering, desperately): Hurry up!
Bill: Is there really no way to see you again?
Woman: No, we must never meet again, that will ruin your and my life.
At this moment, a tall man stood in front of them and bowed slightly, very polite but very compulsive-
tall man: Would you like to dance with me?
The woman hesitated, but the tall man put his arm on her waist and led her to the next room.
After a while, a voice whispered from behind Bill-
elegant man: password!
Bill turned around and saw the two men: one of them was burly, the other was tall and elegant.
Elegant man: Password!
Bill: Federio Rainbow.
Elegant man: Yes, sir. That is the password for entry, but can I ask what the password is in the room?
Bill was stunned. He took a deep breath...
Elegant man: Can you cooperate and tell me the password in the house?
This time his words sounded a bit threatening.
Bill couldn't remember what to say, he shook his head and shrugged his shoulders.
Bill: I'm sorry. It seems I have forgotten.
The elegant man walked to the middle of the room and raised his hand. Everything slowly stopped.
When someone put a hand on Nick's shoulder and whispered something to him, Nick stopped playing while blindfolded. Everyone looked at Bill, and the two men walked behind him.
Elegant man: Password, sir! I ask you to speak up.
Bill: Look, I'm so sorry, but I already told you, I must have forgotten.
Elegant man: That's a pity. It doesn't matter if you forget it or if you don't know it here.
The rest of the men slowly surrounded Bill.
Bill: Well, sir, it seems I should apologize to you all.
Elegant man: It's too late to apologize now.
Bill: Well, I will say no matter what, I sincerely apologize to you for not remembering the second password.
Bill: Well, sir, please forgive me now. I gotta go.
Elegant man: I'm afraid that is impossible.
Bill: Sir, don't you think this farce is too ridiculous?
Bill wanted to find a way, but no one made way for him.
Elegant man: Please take off your mask.
Bill looked around at the masked people around him.
Elegant man (sternly): Please take off your mask.
Bill slowly took off his mask and put it in his pocket.
Woman: I am going to replace him.
Someone in the room was whispering in surprise.
The woman reached out and took off the veil covering her head, face and neck; the veil formed a graceful arc as it fell. After the veil fell on the ground, the woman was completely naked. Her long black hair was scattered on her shoulders, breasts and hips.
Elegant man: Are you ready to replace him?
Woman: Yes, I am ready.
There was a low sigh in the crowd.
Elegant man: Do you know the consequences of doing this?
Woman: I know.
There was another whisper in the room.
The elegant man turned to face Bill—the
elegant man: You can go now, leave the house immediately. But first I must warn you that if you still ask about this or tell others what you saw here tonight, you will be responsible for the most serious consequences for yourself and your family. do you understand?
Bill didn't answer right away.
Bill: How can this woman replace me?
Elegant man: It has nothing to do with you.
Bill (shaking his head): I can't let this woman bear it for me.
Elegant man: You can't. No circumstances can change her destiny. Here, once a promise is made, it cannot be withdrawn.
Woman: Go! You can't save me...
When she said this, she took off the mask and Bill could see her face in an instant.
Then, several powerful arms grabbed him and pushed him outside.
Interior view, Bill's apartment, the night
is now four o'clock in the morning. Bill had changed his clothes now and walked into the room. Everyone is asleep. He walked into his study and put his costumes and evening dresses in the drawer.
In order not to wake Alice, he took off his clothes before entering the bedroom. Alice is still asleep in the
bedroom
. Her arms were under her head, her lips were half open, and the shadow of pain encircled her lips.
It was a face that Bill had never understood. He bent over to her, but her forehead was immediately wrinkled, as if someone had touched it; the expression on her face looked very strange.
Suddenly, she laughed harshly, still in her sleep, which surprised Bill.
Bill (unconsciously): Alice. Alice?
She opened her eyes slowly and hard. She stared at him as if she didn't recognize him.
Bill (softly): Alice?
When she woke up, her eyes were full of fear--even a terrifying look. She was half-dreaming and half-awake, looking desperate: Alice raised her arm.
Bill: What's the matter?
Alice stared at him, still scared.
Bill: Alice, it's me.
Alice took a deep breath, tried to smile, and dropped her arm on the blanket.
Alice (voice that seems to be far away): Is it morning?
Bill: Alright. Just after four o'clock. I just came back.
She nodded, but did not seem to hear or understand what he said. She stared into the distance, as if she could see him through. He bent down and stroked her forehead. She trembled slightly.
Bill: What's wrong?
She shook her head slowly, grabbed his hand and gently brushed her hair.
Bill: Alice, you laugh so strange. What's wrong?
Alice (distantly): I have been dreaming.
Bill (softly): What did you dream of?
Alice: Oh, too many, I can't remember.
Bill (softly): Try it and maybe remember.
Alice: I was so confused just now-now I'm tired. You must be tired too.
Bill: Not so tired. I don't think I can sleep at all. You know, sometimes when I come back so late, it's better to go to work directly.
Alice nodded, not interested.
Bill: But why don't you tell me your dreams?
He smiled reluctantly.
Alice: You should lie down and rest for a while.
Bill hesitated for a moment, then he lay down straight beside her, trying not to touch her. They lay quietly with their eyes open, feeling the closeness and distance between each other.
After a while, he put his head on his arm and looked at her for a long time, as if that way, he could see the outline of her face more clearly.
Bill: Tell me your dreams.
Bill said it again, as if she had been waiting for his invitation.
She reached out to him, and he held it--playing with her delicate fingers as he used to do, gentle but absent-minded.
Alice sighed and began to tell her not very sure-
Alice: I think the dream started in my parents' house. They are not here. Myself. I was surprised because it was our wedding the next day, but I did not have a wedding dress. Then you and I wandered in an ancient city. The city is full of buildings of various ancient styles, Eastern, Egyptian, Greek and Roman buildings. It's barren and crowded. The
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