From Here to Paternity
Jerome is sitting on the spiral staircase. As he sees us, he rises.
Jerome: “Oh good, you’re back. Well, this is highly unorthodox, but we have received such an overwhelmingly high negative response to the outcome of the previous episode, that His Almighty has granted a reversal to the turn of events which transpired in “A Womb With A View.” He has taken the advisement of Mary and St. Peter that Armageddon will erupt if the fans are not appeased. If anyone can perform a miracle…well, you know. As you recall, Maddie and David were enjoying themselves at the baby shower.”
A clip plays of them dancing, gazing loving at one another, Maddie suddenly doubles over in pain. David holds her as her body goes limp. A look of confusion and pain sheets Maddie’s face as David asks someone to call an ambulance. He worriedly assures her that everything will be all right, while constantly asking her if she is Okay.
Jerome: “We’ll pick it up from here. Happy now?! Besides, Kirk Cameron ending up having a little sister and Cosby’s daughter had twins. Baby Hayes wasn’t going to fit into either of those roles.”
Friday, October 7, 1988
An ambulance races down Beverly Boulevard towards the Cedar Sinai Medical Center. Inside two paramedics are frantically attending to Maddie, taking her blood pressure and monitoring the baby’s fetal heart rate. David is holding her hand trying to keep her calm.
David: “Maddie... Maddie, hold on, honey, we’re almost there. Couple blocks to the hospital. The driver’s got the pedal to the metal.”
Paramedic: “How far along is she?”
David: “About 36 weeks.”
Paramedic: “Has there been any complications so far?”
David: “Well, yes... she ran off to Chicago for 4 ½ months, then married some guy on a train, and we’re not sure who the father…” Maddie raises her hand to David’s mouth.
Maddie: “Da - vid!!... he means complications with my health!” Maddie gives David a scolding look. “No, nothing but the expected... morning sickness and such.”
Paramedic: “We’re pulling into the hospital now. Sir, could you sit over there while we get her inside.”
The paramedic points to a small seat in the corner. David reluctantly lets go of Maddie’s hand.
David: “Maddie, I’ll be right behind you.”
Hospital staff are waiting outside Cedar Sinai. The doors of the ambulance fly open, and Maddie is whisked towards the hospital emergency room. David is running alongside her gurney as they head down the corridor.
David: “I’m right here, it’s Okay.”
As they enter the exam room a nurse holds David back.
Nurse: “Sir, you can’t go in there.”
The staff continues rolling Maddie into the exam room.
Maddie: “DAVID?”
David pleads with the nurse.
David: “I need to be there, I promised, she needs me.”
Nurse: “Are you her husband?”
David: “No...”
Nurse: “Are you the father?” as she continues to hold him back.
David: “Not exactly...”
Nurse: “I’m sorry sir, hospital policy...”
David: “I’m her partner... she’s my partner... we’re partners!”
Maddie: “DAVID, where are you?”
David looks at the nurse pleadingly.
Nurse: “Okay, sir” as she continues to hold him back.
David: “David, my name is David”
Nurse: “Okay, David, you first need to go over there and put on a gown before you can go in.” She leads David across the hall.
*****
Back at the restaurant, a solemn scene prevails as Bert and Agnes continue to gather the gifts and bring them to Bert’s car.
Agnes: “I hope Ms. Hayes is going to be Okay. I hope the baby is going to be Okay. I hope Mr. Addison is going to be Okay.
He was trying to be so strong but I know he was really scared. This just isn’t fair. They finally seemed to be ironing out their crumpled relationship after Sam and Walter added a few new wrinkles to it and now things are falling apart at the seams. Where is a needle and thread when you need one.”
Bert: “I wish there was something I could do, we could do, to help them in their time of need.”
Agnes: “I guess what we are doing right now is the best for the moment. Let’s get these last few gifts in the car and go back to the office to wait for a phone call…”
*****
Back at the hospital, the nurse leads David to the exam room as she explains.
Nurse: “They have determined that she has abruptio placentae...”
David: “Premature separation of the placenta. Most commonly occurring in the final trimester. Sometimes caused by placenta previa.”
Nurse: “I’m impressed, David, you certainly know your obstetrics.”
David: “Been hitting the books pretty hard lately... boning up for the big exam. This one must be a pop quiz.”
Nurse: “They are prepping her now for a C-section. The bleeding is not responding to treatment and the baby is showing signs of distress.”
David: “A caesarean... now?! And the baby... it’s not ready. Maddie’s not ready. Hell, I’m not ready!
Nurse: “Well, fortunately the doctors are ready. Here we are. You can see her now.”
David enters the surgical suite where Maddie is already prepped for surgery. She’s been given an epidural and is awake as David enters. A nurse shows him a stool he can sit on next to Maddie.
Maddie: “This is all my fault. I just know I should have taken better care of myself.”
David: “You did great. You did just what you were supposed to do. These guys are the best. They’ll take care of you. Junior will just have a different zodiac sign than you expected.”
Maddie: “This sure isn’t what I expected. I guess all those Lamaze classes were just a waste of time.”
David: “On the contrary, it gave us a chance to spend some special time together.”
David strokes Maddie’s cheek. The hint of a smile shows through on her face as a little tear streams down her cheek.
David: ““Besides, we’ll just be all the more prepared for the next one, not to mention all the great touchy-feely stuff in those classes!”
Maddie: “You just couldn’t let it be nice, could you.”
Another smile crosses Maddie’s face. David shrugs.
Nurse: “They are starting now... would you like a mirror, Maddie?”
David looks questioningly at the nurse.
David: “Maddie, I know you always like to look your best but I really don’t think this is the time for primping... ”
Maddie gives David a confused look.
Nurse: “The mirror is so she can see the baby as it is born.”
David: “I knew that.”
Surgeon: “Maddie, you shouldn’t be feeling any pain, only a feeling of pressure and tugging. Let us know if you are uncomfortable. We have already started. Just a few minutes and you’ll have your baby.”
Maddie: “I’m okay”.
David stands up to look over the drape as the surgeon is working.
David: “Whoa, Maddie! Are you catching this in the mirror?”
Nurse: “David, you might start to feel light-headed watching this. If so, sit down on the stool…”
David: “This is something... Maddie, I think I see a hea... ” David suddenly crashes to the floor. Maddie looks over to where he was standing to see he has disappeared.
Maddie: “David Addison, I’ve had to mop you up off the floor before, but I can’t do it this time. GET UP!”
A nurse administers some smelling salts as David pulls to his knees and looks eye-to-eye with Maddie.
David: “I always said the sight of you knocks me off my feet!”
Maddie smiles, the suddenly lets out a load groan.
Maddie: “Boy, oh, boy, I felt that!”
Instantly, the room is filled with the robust cry of a newborn.
Surgeon: “You’re right, it is a boy! Time... 12:52.”
David jumps to his feet to catch his first glimpse of Baby Hayes. Maddie dawns a huge smile. Baby Hayes is now crying loudly.
David: “Hickory, Dickory, Doc!”
Maddie: “Oh David, look. Listen to him!”
David: “Can’t help but. No doubt about it... he’s got your lungs, Maddie!”
Maddie: “Is he okay?”
David: “If crying is any indication, he’s better than okay!”
Nurse: “We are going to take him to the neonatal unit for observation. Everything looks good so far. He is a preemie, so we need to watch him carefully. David, would you like to go with him? We’ll be finishing up with Maddie and moving her to recovery.”
The nurse gives Maddie a quick glimpse of her little boy before she whisks him away to the nursery.
David: “You okay?”
Maddie: “David, I’ll be fine. You go with him. I don’t want him to be alone. He’s never been alone.”
David: “You sure?
Maddie nods a yes.
David: “Okay.”
David gently kisses Maddie’s forehead.
David: “You done good, kid.” Maddie smiles and then closes her eyes.
*****
David is in the neonatal unit. Nurses are attending to Baby Hayes, weighing, measuring, testing. He is crying in between periods of sudden sleep.
Nurse: “5 pounds, 7 ounces, 17 ½ inches long. For a preemie, he’s a good size. Breathing is slightly labored, but not uncommon for this stage of gestation. We are giving him a little extra oxygen. He is doing quite well.”
David: “Yeh, I could use a little extra oxygen right now.”
Nurse: “No matter how many babies I see, I am still amazed with each and every one.”
David: “This one is pretty amazing.” David hesitantly touches Baby Hayes hand.
Nurse: “It is Okay for you to touch him, he won’t break.”
The nurse looks up at David and back at Baby Hayes a few times as she works.
Nurse: “He looks like you.”
David looks at the nurse with a surprised look.
David: “You mean I look like a red, wrinkled, screaming, tiny old man covered in cream cheese?”
The nurse had said something that David thought he was imagining, that Baby Hayes did resemble him.
Nurse: “No... not like that, there is just... a resemblance. He’s a preemie so he still has some filling out to do. The wrinkles will disappear. His color will improve. We’re going to give him a bath shortly and he will be ready to see mom.”
A nurse enters the nursery.
Nurse: “Mr. Addison? Ms. Hayes is in recovery. She was asking for you.”
David: “She alright?”
Nurse: “She’s fine.”
*****
David enters the recovery room where Maddie is resting. She seems to be asleep but as he enters, she opens her eyes. Maddie: “How’s he doing?”
David: “5 pounds, 7 ounces, 17 ½ inches, fine. And still great lungs, just singing a different tune now. They gave him a little oxygen. Standard procedure.”
David is standing next to Maddie’s bed, stroking her hair away from her face.
Maddie: “How are you doing.”
David: “A little shot of oxygen did wonders for me, too. How ‘bout you, you Okay?”
Maddie: “I didn’t hear a train in the delivery room, but I sure feel like one ran over me. Probably look like it too.”
David: “I always say trains can get you into trouble... (Maddie gives him a slightly scolding look) Just kidding. Bad joke. You look great. Bet you did use that mirror in the delivery room for primping after all.”
Maddie smiles. A nurse enters the room.
Nurse: Ms. Hayes, we are ready to move you to your room. We were able to get you a private room after all.”
Maddie looks at David and before she can speak...
David: “I figured you were going to need your rest. This way you have more privacy.”
Maddie: “Thank you, David. I don’t think I could have made it through this without you here.”
Nurse: “Once we get you moved, you will be able to see your baby.”
David: “Maybe I should go call the office and let them know what’s happening.”
Maddie: “Good idea, they are probably really worried.”
*****
David goes out into the hall to use the phone to call the office.
Agnes: “You’ve reached the offices of Blue Moon. Everything was fine until just before noon, We’re waiting for word on our dear Ms. Hayes, Her baby wasn’t due for many days, If you need a detective to crack your case, I regret to suggest you call another place.”
David: “Yo, Agnes... it’s David.”
Agnes: “Mr. Addison! I’m so glad you called. How’s Ms. Hayes?”
Everyone in the office is now gathering around Agnes’ desk as they wait for the news.
David: “Maddie is fine, the baby is fine. Entered this world via the alternate route, but fine just the same.”
Agnes: “He or she, pink or blue, sugar and spice or frogs and snails?”
David chuckles.
David: “Frogs and snails, Agnes. It’s a boy.”
Agnes: “A boy, Oh Joy!”
David: “Just wanted to check in, let you know what was going on. Maddie had a c-section and will be in the hospital for a few days, maybe more since the little guy is under observation. Standard operating procedure for bambinos that don’t serve out their full sentence. I’ll keep you posted.”
Agnes: “Don’t worry, Mr. Addison, we have things taken care of here.”
David: “Well, thanks to everyone hanging out there. You can all head home and have your weekends. We'll keep you posted."
*****
Maddie has been moved to a private room. David enters the room.
David: “Wow, this is quite a room. I asked for private, not pricey! But then again, nothing but the best for you.”
Maddie: “Did you call the office?”
David: “I did. Gave them the 411 on everything. Also made a few other calls... Walter, Terri, your parents. They are catching a flight out tomorrow.”
David sinks into the recliner next to Maddie’s bed.
David: “I figured you would want your mom here to help you and all...”
Maddie: “Thank you, David. Did they sound worried? I hope they aren’t worried. What am I saying, of course they’re worried. This is all so sudden, so unexpected... David?... David?”
Maddie lifts her head from the pillow. David is fast asleep in the chair. Maddie lovingly smiles at him as she shakes her head then falls back gently to the pillow and she closes her eyes.
*****
Sometime later, a nurse enters the room.
Nurse: “You two ready for a visitor? There is a little gentleman here to see you.” Maddie and David wake up. The nurse helps Maddie sit up in bed and then places Baby Hayes in her arms. Maddie holds him awkwardly at first but within a short time she seems very confident in her motherly abilities. David watches her as she admires his fingers and toes.
David: “Quite a masterpiece, huh?” Maddie smiles in agreement.
Maddie: “I feel like I have known him all my life. It just seems so natural to be holding him. He has the face of an angel.”
David: “Thank you.”
Maddie: “Excuse me?”
David: “The nurse said he looked like me.”
Maddie: “She said that?”
David: “It is possible, Maddie. I still say calendars and sonograms do not a father make.”
Another nurse enters the room.
Nurse: “Here are some flowers that were delivered to you. I’ll just put them over here on the shelf. And I have some paperwork for you to fill out. Things were a bit rushed when you were admitted and we weren’t able to get all the information to complete the forms. Oh, and there is a birth certificate that needs to be completed – no rush. She hands David a three-inch stack of papers. Enjoy your baby!”
Maddie and David both look at the stack and then look at one another a ‘she’s got to be kidding’ look.
David: “You want me to dive into these?”
Maddie: “Do you mind?”
David: “Nah, I love red tape. Just hope I’m done before he’s ready for college.”
*****
Later that evening, David is down to the last form and starts completing the birth certificate.
David: “Okay, got the preliminary stuff filled out. Next question, baby’s name?”
Maddie: “Well... definitely Patrick for his middle name... and I still keep going back to Michael for his first name. What do you think... Michael Patrick.”
David: “I always told you I liked Michael... Michael Patrick it is.” (David fills in the blank) “Now... last name? Hayes?”
Maddie nods and David writes down ‘Hayes’.
David: “And now for the $64,000 question... father’s name?”
Maddie: “Father’s name?”
David: “Yeah, you know... the other participant in this magnificent creation.”
After a long pause...
Maddie: “I’m just going to leave it blank.”
David: “Blank?”
Maddie: “Blank.”
David: “You mean you’ll do it later?”
Maddie “No... I’m just going to leave it blank.”
David: “Blank! You can’t leave it blank.”
Maddie: “I can’t?”
David: “You can’t. They won’t let you. You have to put something. Unknown maybe... but not blank. But unknown... Maddie, you can’t do that to Danny.”
Maddie: “It’s Michael... and what do you mean, I can’t do that to him? Do what to him.”
David: “He’s less than 24 hours old, and already you are shortchanging him. He has the right to have a father, not an unknown. Since you don’t know for sure, I think you should put me as his father.”
Maddie: “I’m not shortchanging him!”
David: “Dan’s not the only one being short changed.”
Maddie: “And what does that mean? And it’s Michael, not Dan!”
David: “You know what it means. His father deserves to know he’s his father. It’s not like you don’t know who COULD be the father and it’s not like you can’t prove who really IS the father, you just refuse to do it. You’re afraid.”
Maddie: “Afraid?... Afraid?... Me Afraid! Hah! I am not afraid, David Addison!”
David: “Then have the test.”
Maddie: “I don’t want any test.”
David: “You’re afraid.”
Maddie: “I’m not afraid.”
David: “Are too.”
Maddie: “Am not!”
David: “Are too!”
Maddie: “Am not!”
David and Maddie both stare at one another.
Maddie: “David, let’s not do this... All right, maybe I am afraid. Although I’m not certain exactly what I’m afraid of.... maybe... certainty.”
David: “Certainty that I am... or certainty that I am not?”
Maddie: “Yes... no... I don’t know... Both... I mean... David, I have tried before to explain to you my fears if you are the father. I don’t mean to hurt you, David, but your parental resume doesn’t exactly characterize you as fatherly material. Not that you couldn’t surprise me and rise to the occasion. On the other hand... if you aren’t the father... that means Sam is... and if Sam is, then I will have to put his name on the birth certificate. And if I put his name on the birth certificate, I have to tell him. And if I tell him, then he’ll come here. And if he comes here... (Maddie lets out a huge sigh)... sometimes I just wish I could run away!”
David: “I hope there are no open flights now to Chicago.”
Maddie: “Can’t do that, remember, my parents are on their way here. Besides, I promised... no more running. I just wish someone could give me the answer.”
David: “Done.”
Maddie: “Done? What do you mean, done?”
David: “I’ll take care of it, the test. I’ll make the arrangements. Consider it done. You will have your answer and then you can make a decision as to what you want to do.”
Maddie: “I don’t know... I don’t know... besides, the nurse said no rush. I need to think, David. I need to think......you look tired. The only sleep you’ve had is in that chair. Go home and sleep fully prone.”
David: “Probably a good idea... I’ll see you in the morning... If you need anything, call me... ”
Maddie: “I know... Go... sleep.”
David kisses Maddie good-bye and walks toward the door. He turns around once he is in the hall and pokes his head back in the room.
David: “Call me...”
Maddie: “I will... g o.” she says softly.
David blows her a kiss with his hand as he leaves. She motions with her lips as if she caught it.
Saturday, October 8
The next morning, Maddie is up and sitting in a chair in her room. Her parents walk in.
Mr. Hayes: “Well, look at you... had a baby yesterday and already out of bed and looking gorgeous.”
Maddie: “Dad... Mom! You must have caught the red eye out here.”
Mr. Hayes: “Just the early bird express. We would have been here yesterday if there was a flight open. Your mother would have gone as cargo on a Fed Ex plane if they let her.”
Mrs. Hayes: “Oh, Alex! (She gently pats his arm) “It’s not just any day I have my first grandchild. We just saw the baby, Maddie. He is absolutely beautiful! How are you? David explained everything to us on the phone yesterday.”
Maddie: “I’m great, overwhelmed, but great.”
Mrs. Hayes: “And the baby, everything Okay? I mean he is early, right?”
Maddie: “About 6 weeks, but he’s doing really well... breathing on his own... crying on his own.”
Mrs. Hayes: “Yes, we heard him when we peaked in on him in the nursery.”
Mr. Hayes: “Well, David filled us in on all the vital statistics... time, weight, length... all except for one... we’ve been referring to this little guy as The Baby and Him. So, what’s my grandson’s name?”
Maddie: “Well... the inks not dry on the birth certificate yet... but I am pretty sure it will be Michael Alexander.”
Mr. Hayes: “Michael Alexander... and?”
Maddie: “Well I guess he could have a second middle name, but Michael Alexander is already a mouthful... ”
Mr. Hayes: “No... I meant a last name.”
Mrs. Hayes: “Alex...”
Maddie: “Well... Hayes...”
Mr. Hayes: “What about David?”
Maddie: “What about David?”
Just then David enters the room.
Mr. Hayes: “Speak of the devil...”
David: “And I thought I retracted my horns this morning (he says with a smile)... Mr. Hayes, nice to see you (as he shakes Mr. Hayes’ hand). Mrs. Hayes, always a pleasure (and he gives her a hug). Did you see the little dividend yet?”
Mrs. Hayes: “Yes, he is so sweet.”
Just then, a nurse wheels Michael into the room. He is crying loudly.
David: “Spoke too soon.”
Nurse: “It’s breakfast time. He is asking for mom. He can be a little devil when he’s hungry.”
David: “Little devil... he must get that from...” (Maddie cuts him off.)
Maddie: “Don’t want to keep the little guy waiting.”
David is already looking at Maddie as she gives him a ‘not now Addison’ look.
Mr. Hayes: “David, what do you say, you and I go down and give the cafeteria some business?”
David: “Good idea, give the girls time to ogle.”
David and Mr. Hayes leave. Mrs. Hayes holds Michael while Maddie prepares to feed him. She looks adoringly at her grandson’s face.
Mrs. Hayes: “He reminds me of someone... I don’t know... I can’t exactly put my finger on it... he has your chin... but... hhmmm... there is something... I guess... I think... he reminds me of David.”
Maddie: “David? Why do you say that?”
Mrs. Hayes: “There’s just... a resemblance. Well, it is possible, right?”
Maddie: “Yes... it is possible.”
Mrs. Hayes: “You still don’t know... I mean... for sure?”
Maddie: “No... I don’t know for sure.”
Mrs. Hayes: “Regardless, he’s beautiful!”
Sunday, October 9
The following day, Agnes and Bert come by to see Maddie and Michael. They enter Maddie’s room. She is in a chair rocking Michael.
Maddie: “Bert... Agnes... I’m so glad to see you.”
Bert: “Ms. Hayes, if I may be so blunt... The image of you with your son cradled in your arms in a tender motherly embrace is but a symphony...” (Agnes cuts him off.)
Agnes: “We’re glad to see you, too, Ms. Hayes... I mean... you TWO... I mean both of you... not that there are two of YOU... I mean you and...” (Maddie smiles.)
Maddie: “I know what you mean, Agnes. I am at a loss for words with all this, too. Everything Okay at the office?”
Bert: “We have things running at a comfortable cruising speed, Ms. Hayes with no bumps in the road thus far.”
Maddie: “Good, one less thing to worry about.”
Agnes is admiring Michael.
Maddie: “Want to hold him?”
Agnes: “Can I?!” (Maddie smiles.)
Maddie: “I’m sure you can, you have two arms, right? Why don’t you get that chair over there and sit down next to me.”
Maddie hands Michael to Agnes.
Agnes: “Wow... Babies are so... WOW.”
Maddie: “Yeah... he is pretty Wow.”
Agnes: “Gee, Ms. Hayes... I think he has your chin... and... look at him, Bert... he reminds me... he resembles... well... Mr. Addison. He reminds me of Mr. Addison.”
Maddie: “He does?... He looks like Mr. Addison?... David?”
Bert: “Although newborns, as a rule, foster more resemblance to a well-aged, wrinkled individual than to their biological kinship, I must concur with Agnes when I say that Master Michael does bare an unmistakable, and might I add, handsome likeness to Mr. Addison.”
Maddie: “He looks like David?... Mr. Addison?... Mr. Addison, Mr. Addison, why does everyone keep saying he looks like Mr. Addison?”
Agnes: “Well... I guess because... he looks like Mr. Addison.”
Maddie looks at Agnes in confusion.
Monday, October 10
Late that evening the following day, Maddie and David are sitting in her room. Maddie is holding Michael in the rocking chair and David is lying on the bed.
Maddie: “I can’t believe how much he has already changed in just a few days.”
David: “Him and you.”
Maddie: “Me?”
David: “You... motherhood becomes you.” (Maddie smiles.)
David: “Word is on the street they are going to spring the two of you from this place tomorrow. You anxious to get home?”
Maddie: “Home?... I hope I’m ready for this.”
David: “Your mom will be there; your dad will be there... I’ll be there. How much work can 5 pounds 7 ounces be?”
Maddie: “I feel so secure in the hospital with the staff just a button-press away.”
David: “You have to fly solo sooner or later.”
Maddie closes her eyes and grimaces.
David: “You okay?”
Maddie: “Just a little uncomfortable. I’ll be fine.”
David: “Why don’t you have the nurse give you something for the pain?”
Maddie: “I just don’t want to take anything that could harm the baby.”
David: “You don’t need to be uncomfortable. I’ll go tell the nurse. She’ll buzz in here and give you something for the pain. They won’t give you anything that isn’t safe for you or Danny.”
Maddie: “It’s Michael.”
David starts to leave the room...
David: “You want me to take Dan back to the nursery while I’m there?”
Maddie: “Michael!”
Maddie hands Michael to David and he places him in the bassinet, then wheels him back to the nursery. Maddie climbs into bed and adjusts the blankets. A short time later, the nurse enters the room with some tablets.
Nurse: “Here are some pain pills that should help you be more comfortable, then you can get some sleep.”
Maddie: “Thank you.”
She takes the pills and settles into bed. David comes back in and sits on the side of the bed.
David: “Little man Dan is catching 20 winks right now...”
Maddie: “Michael.” (David looks at the camera and says, “I love this name game.”)
David: “You should probably catch 20 now too while you can. I’ll be back in the morning to help pack up.”
Maddie: “I am really tired. It’s been a long day.”
David: “By the way, the nurse said you need to complete the birth certificate tomorrow before you can go. Just one more blank to fill in...”
Maddie: “You had to remind me. Why does this have to be so complicated... so difficult. I just don’t know what to do.” David stands up.
David: “I do. There is only one way to answer the question. I told you... I’ll take care of it.”
Maddie: “I need to sleep, David. Tomorrow... hopefully... I will have a new perspective on the situation.”
David kisses her goodbye and Maddie settles down in bed dwelling on David’s last words, ‘I’ll take care of it. . I’ll take care of it...”
Maddie: “I wonder what is happening in the world. Seems like I have been out of touch for days.”
She turns on the TV in her room and skips through the channels. “Guess it’s too late for a news broadcast. All that seems to be on are talk shows. She clicks past Sally Jesse Raphael, Donahue, Jerry Springer, Montel Williams, stopping as she comes to Jenny Jones. A woman is arguing with her boyfriend.
Maddie: “How can people watch this stuff?” David’s last words still repeating in her head, ‘I’ll take care of it... I’ll take care of it’ and just before she drifts off to sleep, she hears Jenny Jones say “We’ll be right back with the results of the paternity test... ”
*****
Maddie is on a large stage seated in the middle of a row of chairs. There is an audience before her full of people. Jenny Jones stands between her and the audience.
Jenny: “Maddie, do you know why you are here today?”
Maddie: “Well, not exactly. I thought David said we were going to a movie.”
Jenny: “Well Maddie, you are here on the Jenny Jones Show because David wants you to know who the father of your baby is. He has arranged a paternity test for your son, and we will learn the results today, right here on national television.”
Maddie: “He what?”
Jenny: “Yes, Maddie. And we are also going to try to help you figure out why you are having such a difficult time making this decision, among others, involving your life. We have assembled a panel of friends and experts to help you sort through your quandary.”
Maddie: “I don’t want to do this. I don’t want to be here. A D D I S O N! Where are you?!”
Jenny: “Well audience, let's bring father #1 out here to get things rolling. David Addison, would you come out please.” David walks onto the stage and sits next to Maddie. The audience cheers and claps.
Maddie: “Addison, you better have your affairs in order because you are not leaving here alive!”
David: “What do you mean affairs, what affairs? I haven’t had an affair in, well, at least a month!”
Maddie scowls at David and he smiles back. The audience hoots.
Jenny: “David, could you explain to the audience what has been going on in a nutshell.”
David: “Well, Jenny, it's more like what’s been going on in a nuthouse.”
Maddie: “Excuse me?”
David: “Have been. During this whole situation I have been excusing you, Maddie. The situation is nuts, you’re nuts! You love me, you love me not, you abruptly take off for Chicago for 4½ months, you find out you are pregnant and don’t tell me, you marry some guy you just met on a train, and now after your baby is born, you refuse to find out who his father is. Nuts!”
Jenny: “What do you have to say, Maddie?”
Maddie: “Well, it’s true... sort of... kind of. David just makes it all sound so bad. I’m just confused.” The audience boos.
Jenny: “We have a well renowned psychologist with us today, Dr. Winston Belmar, who is going to help you sort through some of your problems, Maddie. Dr. Belmar, could you come out here.” Dr. Belmar sits down on the other side of Maddie.
Jenny: “Dr. Belmar, you have been back there listening to what is going on with Maddie and David. What insights can you offer Maddie?”
Dr. Belmar: “Well, to begin with, Maddie, you seem to be afraid of commitment, afraid to make a choice, good or bad, fearful of the future, the unknown. The future is unknown for all of us. You need to assess a situation and make a decision. The more you delay, the more you analyze, the more turbid your thinking will become until finally you will make no decision at all.” The audience claps.
Jenny: “Maddie, is that helpful to you?” Maddie has look of confusion on her face.
Maddie: “I don’t know.”
Jenny: “Also here today, are Maddie’s parents, Alexander and Virginia Hayes from Chicago. Would you both come out here.”
Maddie: “Mom... Dad?” They sit down in the chairs on stage.
Jenny: “Mr. & Mrs. Hayes, what do you want to say to Maddie?”
Mrs. Hayes: “Well, we are just thrilled to have a grandson. We just wish Maddie could face her dilemma head-on and just find out who the father is.”
Mr. Hayes: “She has always been strong willed so we know nothing we will say, nothing we will do will sway her.”
Jenny: “Any input, Maddie?” Maddie seems even more confused.
Maddie: “I don’t know.”
Jenny: “I would like to bring out Dr. T. Berry Brazelton to shed some light on how all this could impact little Danny.”
Maddie: “It’s Michael!”
Jenny: “Dr. Brazelton, would you come out please.”
Dr. Brazelton sits down in a chair on stage.
Jenny: “Dr. Brazelton, what advice can you give Maddie regarding this situation and Dan’s well-being?”
Maddie: “Michael... it’s Michael. Why does everyone keep doing that?””
Dr. Brazelton: “Children need to feel they are loved and wanted by at least one parent, but two is even better. Why short change a child of the nurturing of a father in addition to a mother?”
Maddie: “I’m not shortchanging anyone.”
Jenny: “We’ll break now for a message from our sponsor and when we return, we’ll really heat things up.”
A commercial plays with Dr. Steve Hill, Maddie’s doctor from Chicago. Maddie can see it on an on-stage monitor.
Dr. Hill: “I’m not a doctor but I play one on TV. Is the identity of your baby’s father making your lose sleep? Feeling anxious? Confused? The new and improved HPT test kit will solve your dilemma. With the Home Paternity Test kit, you can test your offspring and potential fathers in less than 10 minutes with 99.9% accuracy in the privacy of your own home, or on national television. The test kit includes enough samples sticks to test up to 10 potential candidates. Refills sold separately. Be sure. Use HPT…” …“Pssst, hey, Maddie, use the test!”
Maddie looks at the monitor in disbelief.
Jenny: “We’re back and as promised, let’s put a little fuel on the fire and bring father #2 out here, Sam Crawford. Sam would you come out please.” Sam sits down next to Mr. Hayes.
Jenny: “Sam, what is your involvement in Maddie’s situation?”
Sam: “Well, to tell you the truth, today was the first day I learned of this whole mess. She never told me she was pregnant. But I am sure it is mine. She should marry me.”
David: “YOU WISH, ROCKETMAN!”
David jumps to his feet. Two big thugs come on stage in anticipation of a fight.
Jenny: “Now, David, you need to control your anger.”
Sam: “Besides, I asked her first.”
David jumps up again, arousing the thugs once more.
Maddie: “I don’t want to do this, I don’t want to do this!”
Maddie gets up and tries to leave, but a thug blocks her way. She moves from side to side, but the thug is mirroring her movements. She runs towards the other door only to be met by another thug. She runs towards the audience where she sees familiar faces, Bert, Agnes, MacGilicuddy, Richie, David Sr. who jumps up and says...
David Sr.: “So, Maddie, do I have a grandson or not?”
As she scans the audience, she sees Walter, Terri, Mr. Anselmo (who is wearing a sign around his neck)...
Maddie: “Mr. Anselmo?... What are you doing here?”
Mr. Anselmo: “The writers just thought this was a good time to let everyone finally see who I am.”
She runs back up to the stage.
Maddie: “Addison, this is all your doing!”
Sam: “Yeah, David, we both know who is best for Maddie and it’s me.”
David jumps to his feet, this time no thugs are near to stop him as he pounces on Sam. A fight ensues and they are rolling around the stage, knocking over chairs.
Maddie: “Somebody stop them!” They continue to fight, rolling down the stage stairs towards the audience. The audience begins laughing...
*****
As the laughing continues, Maddie opens her eyes to see David, Richie, and her parents talking and laughing at the other end of the hospital room.
Mrs. Hayes: “Oh, Maddie... you’re awake!”
David: “I told you to catch up on some sleep but not the last year’s worth.”
Maddie: “How long have I been asleep... what time is it?”
Richie: “3:30”
Mrs. Hayes: “How are you feeling, dear?”
Maddie: “Fine... just a little... disoriented... I had the weirdest dream... is everything Okay?... how is Michael?”
David: “He’s just fine. While you were putting a dent in the Posturepedic, I’ve been taking care of things.”
Maddie: “That’s what I am afraid of.” (Maddie says under her breath)
David: “Did you say something?”
Maddie: “Oh, nothing.”
Richie: “Congratulations, Maddie. That is some little chip-off-the-old-block if I do say so myself.”
Maddie: “Thanks, Richie... David, is that a cigar in your mouth?”
David: “Yea, want one.”
Maddie: “I don’t think you are supposed to be smoking in here.”
David: “They’re bubble gum. Been passing them out today.”
Maddie: “Do Tell. And where did you get the ‘It’s A Boy’ button?”
David: “Nurse gave it to me. Gave one to all of us. Got one for you, too, see.” He proudly opens his jacket to reveal 5 or 6 buttons pinned to the inside.
Richie: “We’ll, I better get back to work before things start running smoothly and they notice I’m gone. I’ll see you both later.”
Maddie: “Bye Richie, thanks for stopping by.”
Mrs. Hayes: “Alex, why don’t we go now and let Maddie get dressed to go home.”
Mr. Hayes: “What's say we run by a market for some food to stock the kitchen, meet back here, say, in a hour, help you load the car?”
David: “Sounds like a plan.”
Mr. and Mrs. Hayes leave.
Maddie: “David, what is with all the cigars and baby buttons?”
David: “What do you mean? This is what you do when babies are born... spread the word... flash the news.”
Maddie: “David the flasher... why am I not surprised?” Maddie says with the hint of a smile as a nurse enters the room.
Nurse: “Your pediatrician has discharged your baby, you can go home whenever your ready – no rush.”
David: “Thanks.”
Maddie: “Guess I better take a shower and get dressed.”
David: “I’ll start putting some of these flowers and gifts in the car while you’re getting ready.”
Maddie: “Did you remember to bring the car seat?” Maddie walks into the bathroom and starts to close the door.
David: “Yeah, it’s in the car, buckled in, ready for Danny boy to ride shotgun.” She pokes her head out.
Maddie: “Michael.” She says firmly, then she gently slams the door, allowing herself to smile once she knows she is out of sight. David smiles, too, obviously enjoying their little name game.
*****
A while later, Maddie exits the bathroom with her makeup case in hand. She sets it in her suitcase on the bed as David walks back in the room.
David: “Well, that was the last of it. You almost ready?”
Maddie: “Ready? I guess so.”
David: “Just one more minor detail to attend to... they aren’t giving you your walking papers until you give them one... paper that is... the birth certificate.”
Maddie: “Oh, yeah... that, I was hoping they would forget,” as Maddie is still arranging her suitcase.
David: “Well, I took the liberty of filling it out for you while you were getting ready.” Maddie turns around quickly.
Maddie: “You did what? I can’t believe you, David! I know I couldn’t seem to make a decision about it, but you had no right to do it for me!” Maddie and David are eye to eye, only inches apart.
David: Well... I think I did... no correct that... I know I did!”
Maddie: “What do you mean you know you did?!”
David: “I know I did... because... I do, I have a right. I told you I would take care of it, and I did. The test. I had him tested, him and me.” The tension between them subsides for a moment as Maddie analyzes him.
Maddie: “You had him tested? How? How did you do that?”
David: “I am a detective, Maddie. It isn’t hard to figure out what to do. I pulled a few strings, cashed in a few I.O.U.s. They gave me the results this afternoon.”
Maddie: “Just like that?”
David: “Just like that.”
Maddie and David stare at one another, each wondering what the other is thinking.
David: “Seems it is more than a coincidence that he resembles me. I can take half the credit, or blame, depending on your point of view, for his looks...I am his father, Maddie.” David has a look of proud sincerity written on his face.
Maddie: “Really?” Maddie looks at David wondering whether to believe him or not.
David: “Really... got the results right here.” David opens one side of his jacket to reveal a pocket with a paper in it.
Maddie: “Right there in that pocket, huh?” She looks at the pocket and back to David’s face.
David: “Yeh... in my heart, too.” (David puts his hand to his chest.) The hint of a smile shows on Maddie’s face.
Maddie: “So... that’s what all the bubble gum and buttons were about. Pretty proud of yourself, huh? I guess you told my parents and Richie?” Maddie sounding disappointed that he didn’t consult her first.
David: “Haven’t told anyone yet. It’s your call. Here’s the birth certificate. I filled it in, but I didn’t turn it in. You have to make the final decision... you decide what to do... you change it if you want to... or need to.”
They both stare at one another for a moment. David a bit apprehensive of what she might say next.
David: “I’ll leave it here on the table, there’s a pen. I’ll go check if Michael is ready to go.”
David starts to walk out of the room, then down the hall. Maddie looks down to the birth certificate. She sees David’s name printed on the line “Father’s Name.” She slowly looks to the ceiling and then over towards the window, then back to the certificate. She picks it up and pauses as she stares at it, then looks towards the hallway. Her attention then focuses back on the birth certificate for a moment. She picks up the pen and looks towards the door once more. Setting the certificate down on the table, she draws what appears to be a line, then writes something. She stares at it and suddenly dashes to the door.
Maddie: “David, wait.”
David turns around and starts back towards her, never taking his eyes off her as he navigates the hallway. All the while, trying to interpret her body language for some clue as to what she is thinking. He meets Maddie in the hallway in front of her door. With pen and certificate in hand he intuitively knows she has made a change. They both share a silent moment looking eye to eye, each reluctant to speak. She looks down to the floor a moment and then back up at David as she hands him the certificate.
Maddie: “Why don’t you go get your son so we can go home... or should I say, David Alexander Hayes-Addison?” She laughs. “Is that a mouthful or what?”
David looks down at the certificate to see she has added a hyphen and the name ‘Addison’ to Michael’s last name. He smiles a proud, slightly embarrassed smile.
Maddie: “It is Okay, isn’t it? Hayes-Addison?”
David: “Sure... you sure?”
Maddie: “Yes... finally... now... I am sure.”
He takes the certificate from her. As they lovingly embrace one another, we see the hint of a tear in both their eyes, right before they shut them. Slowly, reluctantly, he pulls away from her, taking her hand as they look eye to eye then he begins walking backward down the hallway until the distance is greater than their reach, he lets go of her hand and takes another backward step before turning to continue towards the nursery. Maddie lets him go alone, allowing him a private moment to bond with his son. While he’s walking, a song plays in the background (this song wasn’t around when this episode would have originally aired, but it seems appropriate):
Well, I just heard the news today.
It seems my life is going to change.
I closed my eyes, begin to pray.
Then tears of joy stream down my face.
(David enters the nursery and hands the birth certificate to the nurse. She points to Michael and David carefully picks him up. David smiles as he leaves the nursery proudly carrying his son.)
With arms wide open,
Under the sunlight.
Welcome to this place.
I'll show you everything
With arms wide open.
(David walks down the hall to Maddie’s room. A volunteer is waiting with a wheelchair. She sits down in it and David gives Michael to her. David picks up her suitcase and they leave the room.)
Well, I don't know if I'm ready
To be the man I have to be.
I'll take a breath, take her by my side
We stand in awe, we've created life.
(The car is parked at the entrance. Mr. and Mrs. Hayes are waiting there. Mr. Hayes opens the front passenger door as David takes Michael from Maddie. David opens the rear door on the driver’s side to put Michael in his car seat. Maddie opens the opposite door to supervise.)
With arms wide open,
Under the sunlight.
Welcome to this place.
I'll show you everything
With arms wide open.
(David and Maddie take turns trying to get a soundly sleeping Michael properly adjusted in his car seat, then they stop a moment to assess their work. Suddenly, Michael wakes up, flails his arms, begins crying, then abruptly falls back to sleep. Maddie and David are caught by surprise and are taken back a moment as they watch Michael, not quite sure what to expect next. Then they look up at each other with surprised, proud smiles, totally in awe of their son. Freeze Frame.)
Now everything has changed.
I'll show you love.
I'll show you everything
With arms wide open.
If I had just one wish,
Only one demand,
I hope he's not like me.
I hope he understands
That he can take this life
And hold it by the hand,
And he can greet the world
With arms wide open...
THE END
"Arms Wide Open" by Creed