Work Text:
INT. MARK AND ALEC'S HOUSE, LIVING/DINING ROOM - DAY
Mark is sitting at the table, disassembling a laptop.
Daisy comes in from outside in that moment. Mark looks up at her and smiles.
MARK
Hey, sweetheart.
DAISY
(disheartened)
Hi...
She drops her backpack on the floor and closes the door.
Mark frowns a little and gives her an questioning look.
MARK
You all right?
Daisy snorts and leans against the door.
DAISY
I'm fucked!
Mark raises his eyebrows at that.
MARK
That's a rather dramatic statement.
Unlike Alec, he has long since given up trying to persuade a teenager not to swear.
MARK
Would you like to elaborate?
Daisy drags herself to the table and drops into the chair. She sighs deeply and for a moment seems about to speak, then glances at the disassembled laptop on the table and frowns a little.
DAISY
What are you doing?
MARK
Upgrading the RAM on your father's
laptop...
He smiles.
MARK
Your turn.
Daisy crosses her arms on the table and rests her chin on them.
DAISY
Ms. Farrow gave us those leaflets
today... you know, the ones about
University...
MARK
Right.
DAISY
I feel... stuck. Everyone seems so
sure of what to do and I have no
idea...
Mark gives her a soft look.
MARK
University is a big step, it's normal
to have doubts. Plus, you still have
a full year to think about it, the
school is just encouraging you guys
to explore the different options-
DAISY
But how am I supposed to know what to
do? How do I choose? I mean, I am
good at most subjects, I have a good
GPA, but I am not brilliant at
anything!
MARK
Your school performance is more than
good, I think you are being a little
too hard on yourself-
DAISY
I'm not, I'm being realistic!
MARK
All right, then... have you tried
focusing on what you like, rather
than what you are good at?
Daisy frowns a little at that.
DAISY
What do you mean?
MARK
I mean... those two things don't
always go hand in hand. You may
be very good at something, but that
doesn't mean you want to build a
career around it...
Daisy considers that for a few seconds, then shrugs a little.
DAISY
(shyly)
Natural sciences are not bad...
Mark smiles more and removes the old RAM from the laptop, replacing it with the new one.
MARK
Okay, that's a start... what about
non-school stuff?
DAISY
Non-school stuff?
Mark nods.
MARK
Yes... if you had to name the thing
you love most, what would it be?
Daisy hesitates, then gives him an unsure look.
DAISY
Volleyball?
MARK
(teasing, smiling)
Are you asking me?
Daisy chuckles lightly.
DAISY
Volleyball.
MARK
Ah... and you are pretty damn good
at it too, aren't you?
DAISY
But... that is not- that has nothing to
do with Uni, and- I can't devote my
future to that!
MARK
Why not?
Daisy hesitates again at the question.
DAISY
Because... because it's just sport.
Mark starts reassembling the laptop.
MARK
Well, many people choose to do sport
professionally. Plus, a lot of
Universities offer Sports Degrees...
Daisy blinks a little at that, looking suddenly very curious.
DAISY
Sports Degrees?
MARK
Yep.
Beat.
DAISY
Is that a real thing?
Mark can't help but chuckle.
MARK
Yes, sweetheart...
DAISY
Like... like, actual sports-related
studies?
MARK
Yes.
Daisy stares at him with interest.
DAISY
Like what?
MARK
Let's see... Sport Marketing, Sport
Development, Sports Science...
DAISY
What's Sports Science?
MARK
It's basically the study of how the
body functions during exercise and
how sport and physical activity
improve physical and mental health...
I think it involves stuff like
physiology, psychology, anatomy...
He closes the back panel of the laptop and reinstalls the battery.
Daisy stays silent for a few seconds, then leans back in the chair and crosses her arms over her chest.
DAISY
Why doesn't anyone talk about it?
MARK
I don't know. It's not among the most
common choices, perhaps people forget
to mention it sometimes...
DAISY
Do you think there could be dedicated
stands at the Uni Discovery Event
next week?
MARK
Yes, I'm pretty sure there will be.
Daisy nods a little to herself, looking lost in thought for a few seconds, then looks back at Mark and smiles.
DAISY
Thank you.
She stands up and reaches him, wrapping her arms around his neck.
DAISY
You are the best. I love you.
Mark chuckles and holds her close, giving her a sweet kiss on her head.
MARK
I love you too, sweetheart.
She lets him go and walks towards her bedroom.
DAISY
I'm going to do some research! I want
to be ready for the Event.
MARK
Sounds like a good plan.
He watches her trot away with a loving smile on his face, then focuses back on the laptop.
CUT TO:
A FEW DAYS LATER.
INT. MARK AND ALEC'S HOUSE, KITCHEN - EVENING
Something is cooking in the oven.
Mark takes some plates from the cupboard, while Alec leans against the counter, his arms crossed over his chest. He looks slightly tense.
ALEC
God, I'm so bad at all this
University thing...
MARK
You are not-
ALEC
I am, I am terrible... thank God you
came up with that Sports Degrees
stuff, she was so anxious...
Mark turns towards him and gives him a sweet smile.
MARK
She just needed to talk about it a
bit to get her head around the
different options.
ALEC
Yes, exactly. That's where I suck,
the whole "talk about it" part-
MARK
(amused, lovingly)
You don't suck at it...
ALEC
I do...
He lets out a deep sigh.
ALEC
God, she's grown so much...
MARK
Yeah... she's not a kid anymore.
Alec nods a little to himself.
ALEC
Everything was so much easier when
her existential doubts were limited
to which video game to buy or which
film to watch.
Mark chuckles at that. He reaches him and wraps his arms around his waist, holding him close.
MARK
You are doing great.
Alec sighs again, instinctively bringing his hands to his chest.
ALEC
I don't know-
MARK
You are, stop being so hard on
yourself.
Mark leans forward and gives him a small peck on the tip of hi nose.
Alec wraps his arms around his neck, hugging him tightly.
ALEC
I love you...
MARK
I love you too, sweet thing.
Alec closes his eyes and rubs his face against his shoulder.
ALEC
I hope that Discovery Event tomorrow
will be helpful.
MARK
It will, don't worry.
Alec tightens his arms around his neck and sighs again.
ALEC
Thank God you are coming...
Mark chuckles lightly and holds him closer, kissing him lovingly on his head.
CUT TO:
UNIVERSITY DISCOVERY EVENT DAY.
INT. EVENT VENUE - DAY
The place is huge and incredibly busy.
A lot of stands from different Universities are lined up along the walls and in the centre of the venue.
Mark, Alec and Daisy are walking around, taking leaflets from universities representatives from time to time and following Daisy whenever she sees something that interests her.
Suddenly, she stops in the middle of the room and gasps, pointing in front of her with a large smile on her face.
DAISY
(excited)
Look!!
Mark and Alec follow her gaze and notices a stand from Donburgh University dedicated to Sports Degrees.
ALEC
(pleased, smiling)
Oh, that's what you were hoping to
find, isn't it, darling?
DAISY
It is! come on, let's go!
She rushes towards it, and Alec and Mark follow her.
As soon as Daisy reaches the stand, the REPRESENTATIVE (early 20s, brunette, tall and pretty) gives her a bright smile.
REPRESENTATIVE
Hello! My name is Charlotte.
DAISY
Hi! I'm Daisy, nice to meet you.
CHARLOTTE
Nice to meet you too, Daisy! Are you
here by yourself?
Mark and Alec stop right behind Daisy at that moment and she glances back at them with a huge smile.
DAISY
(to Charlotte)
No, I'm here with my dads! They are
giving me moral support!
Mark blinks a little at that, looking taken aback.
He instinctively glances at Alec, expecting to see surprise on his face and looking even more confused when Alec simply extends his hand to the representative, as if nothing out of the ordinary had just happened.
ALEC
(to Charlotte)
Alec. Pleasure to meet you.
Charlotte takes his hand and shakes it.
CHARLOTTE
The pleasure is mine.
Then, she holds out her hand to Mark, who shakes off the momentary shock and takes it, shaking it gently.
MARK
Mark, nice to meet you.
CHARLOTTE
Nice to meet you! So...
(to the both of them)
you must be excited to see your
daughter take her first steps towards
University!
Mark stiffens slightly a that, with the air of someone who has been drawn into a conversation he feels he has no right to be part of.
Thankfully, Alec speaks before an awkward silence could descend on them.
ALEC
Yes, excited and... a bit terrified!
Daisy chuckles at that and pats him lightly on his arm.
DAISY
You are doing good!
ALEC
(amused)
Thank you darling.
CHARLOTTE
Ah, I can see that the moral support
is mutual!
Alec chuckles at that and places a hand on Daisy's shoulder.
ALEC
Yes, I guess it is.
CHARLOTTE
Well, then... let me do my part!
Charlotte gestures towards the many leaflets on the table, looking back at Daisy with a smile.
CHARLOTTE
Is there any specific Sports Degree
that interests you?
DAISY
Do you offer a Sports Science Degree?
CHARLOTTE
We do!
She takes one of the leaflets and hands it to Daisy, who takes it immediately and studies it with curiosity.
CHARLOTTE
Would you like an overview?
DAISY
(excited)
Yes, please!
Charlotte jumps straight into an enthusiastic introduction, which Daisy listens to with deep interest.
Mark does his best to pay attention, but looks clearly lost in thought.
CUT TO:
INT. MARK AND ALEC'S HOUSE, BEDROOM - NIGHT
Mark and Alec are getting ready for bed.
Alec reaches the chest of drawers and opens the first drawer, looking for something to wear for the night.
Mark, for his part, just sits on the edge of the bed, looking pensive.
ALEC
You know... I didn't think that the
Discovery Event would be this good.
He takes one of Mark's t-shirt and puts it on, closing the drawer and turning around to look at him.
ALEC
(smiling)
Daisy was so excited... I can't tell
you how relieved I am. I was afraid
that she would feel overwhelmed,
but...
He suddenly notices the vaguely tense look on Mark's face and trails off, frowning a little.
ALEC
You all right, love?
Mark hesitates for a moment, then swallows slightly.
MARK
Yes, uhm... all good, it's just...
He stops, looking slightly unsure.
Alec frowns more and moves closer.
ALEC
What is it?
Mark hesitates again, then clears his throat a little and gives him an almost timid look.
MARK
Daisy... she referred to me as dad,
today.
Alec looks at him in confusion for a moment, then nods.
ALEC
She refers to you as dad all the
time.
Mark stares at him at that, clearly taken aback.
MARK
(unsure)
I thought I was her father's partner.
Alec can't help but chuckle a little at that.
ALEC
You stopped being her father's
partner at least a year ago.
When Mark just keeps staring at him, the amused expression on Alec's face fades a little.
ALEC
You really didn't notice?
Mark stirs a little under his gaze.
MARK
Well... no, I...I didn't.
ALEC
Oh.
There is a moment of silence between them, then Alec gives him a vaguely worried look.
ALEC
Does it... does it bother you?
Mark blinks at that and raises his eyebrows.
MARK
If it bothers me?
ALEC
Yes...
Beat.
MARK
No, of course it doesn't! Far from
it, it's just...
(pause)
I didn't expect that...
Alec smiles, looking relieved.
ALEC
Why not? You have been a parental
figure to her for years...
(pause)
a fantastic one, I might add.
Mark's expression softens at that.
ALEC
And you always say that you love her
like a daughter-
MARK
I do. Of course I do, I'd do anything
for her.
Alec looks lovingly at him at that.
ALEC
Then, what is the problem? Why do you
look so... troubled?
MARK
There is no problem, and I'm not
troubled at all, I swear, I just-
He stops, lowering his gaze and looking suddenly very vulnerable.
MARK
I never thought that being called
"dad" would be a privilege I'd ever
have in life...
Alec gives him a surprised look at that, then the expression on his face softens, if possible, even more.
ALEC
Oh, Mark...
He reaches him and sits on his lap. Mark looks up at him and offers him a timid smile.
MARK
Sorry-
ALEC
Come here...
Alec wraps his arms around his neck and hugs him tightly, laying a kiss on the side of his face.
ALEC
You are the best dad any kid could
wish for.
Mark seems about to retort, but Alec stops him by holding him closer and giving him a sweet peck on his lips.
ALEC
And you are the best partner anyone
could wish for...
Another soft peck on his lips.
ALEC
And Daisy and I are so lucky to have
you...
Another peck.
ALEC
So, so lucky...
Mark leans his forehead against his and hugs him tightly, sighing deeply.
MARK
Sorry-
ALEC
Stop apologising...
Alec nuzzles his nose, smiling.
ALEC
What are you apologising for, being
six-foot-seven and 280 pounds of
ridiculous sweetness?
Mark chuckles at that.
MARK
Right-
ALEC
(teasing)
How is it even possible-
MARK
Shut up-
ALEC
(teasing)
You are literally a mountain of
sugar-
MARK
All right, stop-
Alec chuckles and kisses him. Mark holds him close, smiling against his lips.
When they part, he raises a hand to his face and strokes his cheek sweetly.
MARK
I love you...
Alec rubs his face against his hand and smiles more.
ALEC
I love you too... so, so much.
They kiss again, slowly and sweetly.
CUT TO:
ONE MONTH LATER.
INT. MARK'S CAR - DAY
Mark is driving, while Daisy is sitting comfortably in the passenger seat.
She is over the phone, in the middle of a conversation.
DAISY
(on the phone)
Dad, come on! You said you would come
with us!
INT. POLICE STATION, ALEC'S OFFICE - SAME
Alec leans against his desk, sighing deeply and running a hand through his hair.
ALEC
(on the phone)
I know darling, I'm so sorry... I
don't like it either, but I'm swamped
with paperwork and I really need to
finish this stuff by this evening.
INTERCUT - INT. CAR/INT. ALEC'S OFFICE - SAME
Daisy's shoulders slump and she sighs a little.
DAISY
Well, your loss. Mark and I are going
to have a lot of fun without you!
ALEC
I know you will.
DAISY
Actually, I think we will also stop
for a milkshake at that place you
like so much!
Mark smiles in amusement at that, his eyes fixed on the road.
ALEC
Oh, come on now-
DAISY
Yeah, such a shame you can't come
with us.
ALEC
All right, don't rub it in.
DAISY
Oh, and now that I think about it...
A sudden, sly expression appears on her face.
DAISY
Since you are not coming, you have no
say in the dress!
Alec blinks a little at that.
ALEC
Hold on a moment, I can still be
involved! You guys can send me some
photos and-
DAISY
(teasing)
Naah, I don't think we'll do that.
ALEC
Daisy, come on-
DAISY
Nope.
ALEC
Let me talk to Mark-
DAISY
What? What did you say?
ALEC
Let me talk to Mark-
DAISY
I can't hear you! Hellooo?!
Mark chuckles a little to himself.
ALEC
You can hear me just fine! Let me-
DAISY
Helloooo?! I can't hear you dad, I'm
sooo sorry!
ALEC
Daisy-
DAISY
So sorry!! I love you, bye!
ALEC
Daisy!
She hangs up.
END INTERCUT.
INT. POLICE STATION, ALEC'S OFFICE - SAME
Alec looks at the screen of his phone with an affronted expression on his face.
ALEC
Unbelievable!
INT. MARK'S CAR - SAME
Daisy drops the phone on her legs with an amused smile, then turns her head to look at Mark and points a finger at him threateningly.
DAISY
Don't send him any photos!
Mark gives her a soft look.
MARK
Don't you think that's a little
cruel?
DAISY
Nope!
MARK
He really wanted to come,
sweetheart...
Daisy sighs and thinks about it for a moment, then looks back at him.
DAISY
You are allowed to text him.
Mark nods, looking amused.
MARK
All right.
INT. BOUTIQUE - DAY
Mark and Daisy come in from outside.
The place is small but quite lovely; many colourful dresses are elegantly displayed on one side of the shop, while on the other side there is a white reception desk just in front of a corridor leading to the fitting rooms.
As soon as they enter the store, a SHOP ASSISTANT looks up at them from the reception area with a friendly smile.
SHOP ASSISTANT
Good afternoon! How can I help?
Mark places a hand on Daisy's shoulder and smiles.
MARK
Good afternoon, we are looking for a
dress for the school prom.
The shop assistant lights up at that.
SHOP ASSISTANT
Oh, how exciting!
Daisy offers her a timid smile.
DAISY
Yeah... it's my first prom.
SHOP ASSISTANT
Lovely. We must find a special dress,
then!
She gestures towards the other side of the shop.
SHOP ASSISTANT
Please come this way.
Daisy follows her and glances timidly back at Mark - this is clearly something she is intrigued by, but not used to.
Mark winks at her, making her smile.
INT. BOUTIQUE, FITTING ROOMS - LATER
Mark is sitting on a clear sofa, leafing through a fashion magazine with mild interest.
DAISY (O.S.)
(from inside a fitting room)
Right... I don't think this is for
me... it's a bit too much...
Mark looks up from the magazine.
MARK
Can I see?
Daisy moves the curtain and steps timidly out of the fitting room; she's wearing a dark red, mermaid dress with a sweetheart neckline.
Mark stares at her in silence for a moment, taken aback.
MARK
Wow...
He can't help but smile.
MARK
You look beautiful, sweetheart.
Daisy blushes and grimaces a little, causing Mark to smile even more - and with infinite affection - at how much she looks like Alec with that expression on her face.
DAISY
I don't know... I don't feel like
myself...
MARK
(lovingly)
Take it off, then. Try something
else.
DAISY
(smiling timidly)
All right.
INT. BOUTIQUE, FITTING ROOMS - LATER
Mark is still sitting on the sofa, waiting patiently.
When his phone chimes, he pulls it out of his trouser pocket and checks it; it's a text from Alec.
How is it going?
Mark smiles and replies:
Still in the fitting room. She
discarded a couple of mermaid dresses
and a princess gown. She's trying out
an A-Line navy dress now...
Alec's reply comes only after long moments:
I don't know 90% of those words.
Help...
Mark can't help but chuckle a little to himself. He writes back:
Babe, you need to build up some
fashion knowledge.
This time, Alec's reply is almost immediate:
It would be easier if you sent me
some photos.
Mark writes back:
I can't, she's forbidden it. If she
catches me, she will kill me.
Alec replies:
Coward...
Mark chuckles again.
DAISY (O.S.)
(from inside a fitting room)
Uhm... this is not going well...
Mark looks up.
MARK
What's wrong?
Daisy hesitates, then comes out of the fitting room with an unsure expression on her face; the A-Line navy dress is nice, but makes her look way older than she actually is.
DAISY
I look like an old lady on her way to
collect the award for the best estate
agent of the year...
Mark can't help but laugh at that, causing Daisy to start laughing in return.
The shop assistant walks into the fitting rooms a few moments later, probably drawn by the sound of laughter.
SHOP ASSISTANT
(smiling)
Is everything okay?
Mark forces himself to stop and nods, clearing his throat a little, while Daisy keeps laughing in the background.
MARK
Yes, all good we... I don't think we
have found the right one yet.
SHOP ASSISTANT
I see! We actually have some new
arrivals that have not yet been
displayed.
(to Daisy)
Would you like to see them?
Daisy slowly stops laughing and nods.
DAISY
Sure, why not? Thank you!
The shop assistant smiles warmly at her.
SHOP ASSISTANT
Perfect! I'll be back in a jiffy!
She departs.
Daisy and Mark exchange another look and chuckle, still deeply amused.
INT. BOUTIQUE, FITTING ROOMS - LATER
Mark is pacing slowly back and forth, hands buried into his trouser pockets.
After a few seconds, a light, vaguely surprised sound comes from inside the fitting room.
MARK
Everything okay?
DAISY (O.S.)
(from inside a fitting room)
I... I think I found it.
MARK
(pleased)
Really?
DAISY (O.S.)
(from inside a fitting room)
I think so!
MARK
Let me see!
Daisy opens the curtain and steps out of the fitting room, looking timidly up at Mark.
Mark stops pacing and stares at her with a large smile on his face.
MARK
You look... absolutely incredible.
Daisy smiles brightly at that.
She is wearing a tea-length dress with a semi-sweetheart neckline and a voluminous tulle skirt. The colour fades pleasantly from black to lilac, making the bodice flattering and the skirt light. There is something vaguely gothic about it.
It is different, very distant from what one would expect from a classic prom dress, but it is absolutely perfect for Daisy.
DAISY
Do you really like it?
MARK
I do, you look gorgeous!
Daisy smiles more and looks down at herself.
DAISY
Can I say something that might sound
a little weird?
MARK
Fire away.
She hesitates, then looks back up at him.
DAISY
I'd love to wear this with boots...
Mark raises his eyebrows, smiling more.
MARK
Boots?
DAISY
Yeah, something like the black army
boots I have at home or, uhm ... Dr.
Martens maybe. I saw a black and lilac
model online with a dark purple
platform...
(almost to herself)
those would be so perfect...
Mark nods a little to himself, clearly taking a mental note of that but doing his best to look casual.
MARK
Sounds really, really cool.
Daisy checks casually the price label of the dress and the smile suddenly fades from her face.
DAISY
Oh...
She gives him an unsure look.
DAISY
It's really expensive... I didn't
notice-
MARK
It's fine, don't worry about it.
Mark reaches her and gives her a sweet kiss on her forehead, smiling lovingly.
MARK
You look stunning.
Daisy hesitates for a few seconds, looking suddenly a little nervous.
DAISY
It's not like what the other girls
will wear... they will think I'm a
weirdo, especially if I wear it with
boots...
MARK
Who cares what the other girls will
wear or think? It's not your problem.
The only thing that matters is what
you think. Do you like it?
Daisy looks up at him, smiling timidly.
DAISY
I really love it.
MARK
There you go, then! You do you, girl.
The smile on her face widens and she throws herself into his arms, hugging him tightly.
DAISY
Thank you! I love you so much!
Mark chuckles and holds her close, kissing her tenderly on the top of her head.
MARK
I love you too, sweetheart. You have
no idea...
The shop assistant returns at that moment, smiling warmly.
SHOP ASSISTANT
So! How are we doing?
Mark and Daisy let go of each other and exchange a quick look, then Daisy turns to look at the shop assistant and gives her a bright smile.
DAISY
We have a winner!
INT. BOUTIQUE, FITTING ROOMS - LATER
Mark is at the cashier's desk; he has just paid and the shop assistant is handing him a big bag.
SHOP ASSISTANT
Here we go!
Mark takes the bag with a smile.
MARK
Thank you.
SHOP ASSISTANT
You're very welcome!
Mark's phone chimes in that moment.
He pulls it out of his trouser pocket and checks the screen; a text from Alec.
Update?
Mark smiles and writes back:
Mission accomplished. Waiting for her
to change back into her clothes.
Alec reply comes after mere seconds and they start a quick back and forth:
ALEC
That's great! How is the dress? Is
she happy?
MARK
Very happy. And the dress is
beautiful.
ALEC
I'm so sorry I missed it...
MARK
Want to redeem yourself?
ALEC
How?
MARK
Dr. Martens, shop online. Black and
lilac boots with dark purple
platform.
Beat.
ALEC
I'm on it. God, I love you...
Mark chuckles lightly. He has just the time to write a last text:
Love you too, sweet thing xxx
when Daisy, back into her usual clothes, comes trotting from the fitting rooms with a bright smile on her face.
Mark looks up at her and smiles back.
MARK
Here you are! Everything okay?
Daisy reaches him and hugs him tightly.
DAISY
More than okay!
The shop assistant can't help but give them a sweet smile.
SHOP ASSISTANT
Someone seems very happy with her
new dress!
Daisy chuckles.
DAISY
I am!
SHOP ASSISTANT
It's lovely, and you looked
beautiful! Your dad gave you a
really nice present.
Mark stiffens a little at that, but every trace of tension leaves him immediately as Daisy hugs him more tightly and looks up at him with the sweetest smile ever.
DAISY
He did!
Mark smiles back to her and kisses her tenderly on her forehead, holding her close.
Then, he looks back at the shop assistant and offers her kind smile.
MARK
Thank you for your help.
SHOP ASSISTANT
My pleasure!
MARK
(to Daisy)
Ready to go?
DAISY
Yep!
CUT TO:
PROM NIGHT.
INT. MARK AND ALEC'S HOUSE, LIVING/DINING ROOM - EVENING
Alec is pacing nervously back and forth, while Mark is leaning against the sofa, looking at him with a soft expression on his face.
They are in the middle of a conversation.
MARK
Babe, relax... it's just a prom-
ALEC
I still think I should drive them
there-
MARK
No-
ALEC
They are just kids, what if-
MARK
(amused)
Alec, do not drive your daughter and
her boyfriend to the school prom.
Alec grimaces a little at the word "boyfriend", then rolls his eyes.
ALEC
Fine!
He snorts, looking clearly not convinced.
ALEC
Lucas better be a good driver...
MARK
I'm sure he is. Plus, the school is
only a 10-minute drive from here.
ALEC
(mumbling)
A lot can happen in 10 minutes...
MARK
(softly)
Nothing is going to happen. They will
drive there, have fun, and drive back.
Alec stops pacing at that and gives him a thoughtful look.
ALEC
What time do you think he should
bring her home?
Mark shrugs a little.
MARK
I don't know... tomorrow is Saturday,
they have no school, let them enjoy
the-
ALEC
I'd say 9pm.
MARK
No, come on-
ALEC
Why not?!
MARK
(amused)
It's way too early.
ALEC
9:30, then.
MARK
How about midnight?
ALEC
What?! Absolutely not!!
MARK
(amused)
It's a prom, on Friday night-
ALEC
10pm.
Mark chuckles and shakes his head a little to himself.
At that moment, the sound of approaching steps coming from another room can be heard.
DAISY (O.S.)
All right, I'm coming! Ready?
Alec and Mark exchange a smile.
ALEC
Ready!
Daisy walks into the room, a bright smile on her face.
She is wearing the dress with her black army boots, and her hair is gathered in a lovely curly bun. She looks absolutely gorgeous.
Alec stares at her with wide eyes and can't help the small gasp that leaves his lips.
ALEC
Oh, darling... you look so,
so beautiful!
Daisy smiles more and performs a pirouette, making the tulle skirt fly around.
DAISY
Thank you!
MARK
You look incredible, sweetheart!
ALEC
Absolutely stunning!
Mark glances at Alec, a sly smile on his lips. Alec meets his eyes and suddenly forces himself to look serious.
He clears his throat and crosses his arms over his chest, looking at Daisy with a contemplative air.
ALEC
Although... I think something is
wrong.
The smile on Daisy's face fades at that.
DAISY
Wrong?
She looks down at herself.
DAISY
What do you mean?
ALEC
I don't know, I feel that something
is not as it should be.
(to Mark)
What do you think, love?
Mark scrutinises Daisy carefully.
MARK
Well, now that you mention it...
Daisy's face falls a little.
DAISY
Really? What is it? What's wrong?
ALEC
I don't know, I...
He looks around.
ALEC
Oh, wait!
He reaches the sofa and pulls a bag from behind it, forcing himself to hide a smile.
ALEC
Maybe this could help.
He turns around and holds the bag out to her.
Daisy stares at it and blinks a little; it's a Dr. Martens bag.
Her eyes widen and she looks up at them with the most excited expression on her face.
DAISY
You didn't!!! YOU DIDN'T!!
Alec and Mark chuckle at her reaction.
ALEC
Open the box first, I'm not 100% sure
they are the ones you wanted.
Daisy takes the bag from him and pulls out the box, opening it with shaky hands.
Inside the box there is a pair of black and lilac Dr. Martens with a dark purple platform.
Daisy gasps, and judging by the excitement on her face, they are exactly what she wanted.
DAISY
(excited)
Oh my God, OH MY GOD, OH MY GOD!!!
She takes the boots out of the box and starts jumping in the middle of the room, then throws herself into Alec's arm, hugging him tightly.
DAISY
Thank you!! THANK YOU!!!
Alec chuckles and hugs her back, kissing her head and giving Mark a grateful look. Mark winks at him, smiling happily.
Daisy kisses her father repeatedly on his cheek, then lets him go and hugs Mark, who holds her close.
DAISY
I LOVE YOU GUYS SO MUCH!!
Mark chuckles and gives her a kiss on her forehead.
MARK
We love you too, sweetheart.
He lets her go.
MARK
Come on, put them on!
DAISY
Yes!!
She drops onto the sofa and takes off her army boots, changing into the new Dr. Martens.
Once done, she stands up and looks down at her feet with an excited expression on her face.
DAISY
Oh my God, they are SO COOL!!!
Alec smiles happily and kisses her on her cheek.
ALEC
You look stunning, darling.
At that moment, the doorbell rings.
DAISY
(excited)
I'll get it!!
She reaches the door, then takes a moment to compose herself and opens it.
Lucas stands right outside, wearing a nice dark suit and a lilac tie.
As soon as he sees Daisy, his eyes widen and a huge smile appears on his face.
LUCAS
Oh my God, you look AMAZING!!!
DAISY
Thanks!
They hug.
DAISY
You look amazing too!
They exchange a quick kiss.
Alec stiffens a little at that - he is still not used to that.
Mark notices and gives him a small kiss on his head.
DAISY
(to Lucas)
Come in for moment, I just need to
take my jacket!
She pulls Lucas into the house and closes the door, then rushes towards her room.
DAISY
I'll be back in a second!!
Lucas immediately smiles to Alec and Mark and holds out his hand.
LUCAS
Hello everyone!
Alec takes his hand first and shakes it briefly, giving him a small smile.
ALEC
Hi, Lucas. You look great.
LUCAS
Oh, thank you!
Mark shakes his hand too.
MARK
(smiling)
How are you doing?
LUCAS
Good, great! I'm really excited!
MARK
Yeah, you guys are going to have
a lot of fun.
Lucas is about to say something, but Alec speaks before he can.
ALEC
(to Lucas)
How long have you been driving?
Mark does his best to hide an amused smile at that.
LUCAS
Oh, uhm... about two years.
ALEC
Do you feel confident enough?
LUCAS
Yes, I... I'd say so.
ALEC
Have you ever been stopped by
the police?
Lucas stirs under his gaze, starting to look a little nervous.
LUCAS
No, I-
ALEC
Never? Are you sure?
LUCAS
N-never, I swear-
ALEC
You know that you are not allowed to
drink tonight, right?
LUCAS
Yes, sir-
ALEC
And you-
MARK
(amused)
Alec...
ALEC
I'm just asking a few legitimate
questions!
MARK
(amused)
Okay, but now give this poor young
man a break. I'm sure he is a very
responsible driver.
LUCAS
I am, I swear!
Alec gives him a sceptical look but nods.
ALEC
All right, all right.
Daisy comes back in that moment, wearing a cropped leather jacket that gives her a very rock 'n' roll, 80's look.
DAISY
I'm ready!
Lucas looks at her with a bright smile on his face.
LUCAS
Jesus, you look so cool!
Daisy smiles happily and gives him a peck on his lips.
DAISY
Thank you!
She turns to look at Mark and Alec.
DAISY
All right, I'll see you guys later!
ALEC
Yes, about that... I want you home
no later than 10pm.
Daisy moans at that and the smile on her face turns into a disappointed expression.
DAISY
Dad, come on!
ALEC
What?! It seems more than reasonable
to me!
DAISY
Please, it's my first prom! And we
don't even have school tomorrow!
Alec hesitates; he glances at Mark, who gives him an amused look that states very clearly "you know what I think".
Alec rolls his eyes, then sighs deeply and looks back at Daisy.
ALEC
Fine!
(pause)
Midnight.
Daisy exults and jumps with joy.
DAISY
Thank you!!!
She gives Alec and Mark a kiss, then grabs Lucas' hand and runs outside.
INT./EXT. MARK AND ALEC'S HOUSE - CONTINUOUS
DAISY
Bye!!
LUCAS
Have a good evening!
Alec waves and leans against the doorframe, watching them jog towards Lucas' car at the other side of the street.
Mark wraps an arm around his waist and stands at the door next to him.
Alec sighs deeply.
ALEC
God, she really isn't a kid
anymore...
Mark smiles and holds him close, giving him a sweet kiss on his head.
MARK
Yeah...
Suddenly, Daisy stops just a few steps away from the car and looks up at Lucas.
DAISY
Wait!!
Lucas gives her a confused look.
LUCAS
What?
DAISY
Give me one second!
She turns around and runs back towards the house.
Alec and Mark give her a questioning look.
ALEC
You all right, darling?
DAISY
I forgot something!
ALEC
What?
She smiles happily and throws herself into Alec and Mark's arms, making them jump a little in surprise and hugging them tightly.
They both hug her back, smiling.
MARK
You okay, sweetheart?
Daisy hugs them more tightly and nods, then pulls them down and wraps her arms around their necks.
DAISY
You guys are the best family anyone
could ever wish for...
She holds them closer.
DAISY
And the best dads in the entire
universe.
Mark smiles softly and closes his eyes for a moment at that, hugging her tightly in response, his throat feeling suddenly very tight.
ALEC
Oh, darling...
Daisy kisses them on their cheeks, then smiles brightly and lets them go, running back towards the car and waving happily.
DAISY
I LOVE YOU! BYE!!
ALEC
Bye!
Mark smiles more and waves back.
A few moments later, Daisy and Lucas get into the car and leave.
Everything is still and silent in the street for a few seconds, then Alec turns his head to look at Mark; he's not surprised to see his eyes shining with emotion.
He smiles softly and wraps his arms around his neck.
Daisy's words mean the world to both of them, but they carry a special weight for Mark, and Alec knows it.
ALEC
I love you...
Mark smiles and kisses him sweetly on his shoulder.
MARK
I love you too, babe...
Alec pulls back a little and studies his face, smiling more.
ALEC
You all right?
Mark nods and strokes his cheek lovingly.
MARK
Never been better.
ALEC
Good...
He pats him playfully on his chest, and gives him a playful look.
ALEC
Let's go inside, then... I'm going to
need one of your incredibly sweet hot
chocolates and a ridiculously large
dose of reassurance to keep my
anxiety at bay until midnight.
Mark chuckles at that and holds him closer.
MARK
All right...
They go back in.
ALEC
Do you think I should call her in 10
minutes to make sure they arrived
safely?
MARK
(amused)
Absolutely not...
ALEC
Just a very quick call-
MARK
No.
ALEC
No, but... listen-
They close the door, leaving the quiet and peaceful street outside.
FADE TO BLACK
THE END