DEXTER Footprints

Written by Melody Fox

Melody Fox (818) 505-0559 onewackybroad@aol.com

Manager: Jerry Miko (213) 434-0317 jmiko@miko-group.net

DEXTER Footprints FADE IN: ON DEXTER. Intense. Focused.

DEXTER (V.O.) Most dads teach their sons to play baseball. Dexter flips down his clear SAFETY MASK. DEXTER (V.O.) (CONTD) My foster father Harry taught me a different skill set. He fires up a POWER SAW... lowers it with a steady hand. DEXTER (V.O.) (CONTD) Prudent, in light of my special needs. The blade penetrates an unseen victim. relishing the familiar vibration. Dexters lips curl,

DEXTER (V.O.) (CONTD) So while other boys learned to catch and throw and steal home plate, I developed a faculty for assorted Black & Decker products. As the vibrant RITA steps INTO FRAME, we PULL BACK to see Dexters victim today is merely a BOOKCASE hes building. DEXTER (V.O.) (CONTD) Which makes me quite the handy sociopath to have around the house. RITA Im impressed... As she hands him a glass of lemonade, REVEAL we are -EXT. RITAS BACKYARD - DAY RITA Youve definitely earned your lemonade. Dexter flips up his mask, gulps it down as CODY and ASTOR push past to look at the bookcase.

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ASTOR Can we get some new books now? old ones are for little kids. Dexter gives Astor an obedient bow. DEXTER Yes, my liege. We will do so posthaste, forthwith and pronto quick. (a look to Rita) With the queens permission. Astor smiles sweetly at his silliness. angelic face up at Dexter.

Our

Cody tilts his

CODY I like it when youre here to read to us at bedtime. RITA (nudges Dexter) I kinda like it when youre still here in the morning. CODY Why doesnt Dexter live with us all the time. Could he, Mom? Please? RITA (caught off-guard) Cody... I.. uh... Dexter is quick to nip it in the bud, scooping up Cody -DEXTER But then the tickle monster would never leave you alone. -- and tickling him into a fit of laughter. A blissful smile crosses Ritas face. The sounds FADE UNDER... DEXTER (V.O.) (CONTD) The real problem is the other monster... The one inside me who needs personal space to pursue his dark works. PUSH IN on Dexters eyes as his mind drifts to a dark, delightful task ahead... DEXTER (V.O.) (CONTD) And at the top of the monsters to do list...

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INT. NEW AGE BOOKSTORE - DAY OPEN ON ED WALKER, 35, a charismatic, uncompromising man with intense eyes. Behind him, an easel holds a promotional placard for his BOOK titled WASTE NOT. ED Visualize your garbage. REVEAL that Ed lectures to a CROWD in folding chairs. Its a mixed group of middle-class recyclers and hard core granola crunchers. ED (CONTD) The garbage produced by you and your lovely spouse, and perhaps your two charming kids. CAMERA MOVES OVER the faces of the crowd, rapt. ED (CONTD) Would one days worth fit in a bathtub? What about a week? Would you need a swimming pool? Its a fact that the good people of America discard enough crap every day to fill the Empire State Building twenty times over. (beat) My trash? Could fit in a glove compartment. We FIND DEXTER in the back, half-tucked behind a display rack, a Styrofoam cup in hand and studying Ed, warily. DEXTER (V.O.) Ed Walker. Environmentalist, author, and my personal pick in the matter of three unsolved murders. Dexter takes a measured sip, eyes narrowed on Ed. DEXTER (V.O.) (CONTD) The first unfortunate was Ann Trent -CUT TO: INSERT: TV NEWS FOOTAGE. A PHOTO of ANN TRENT under the caption STILL MISSING. Shes a pleasant looking academic with eyeglasses and a sensible haircut.

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DEXTER (V.O.) (CONTD) -- A professor of climatology whose lectures on the myth of global warming outraged environmentalists. INSERT: A PHOTO of PROTESTORS with signs outside a college lecture hall. Among them, Ed Walker. DEXTER (V.O.) (CONTD) Equally ill-fated, was Rick Manos -CUT TO: INSERT: A NEWSPAPER ARTICLE with a PHOTO of a sharp looking man smiling like a politician beside a PHOTO of a young woman. The HEADLINE: ASSEMBLYMAN AND INTERN VANISH. DEXTER (V.O.) (CONTD) -- A young legislator whose budget proposals cut alternative energy spending. He vanished along with his intern after a political fund-raiser. INSERT: TV NEWS FOOTAGE, RICK MANOS on the steps of the Florida capitol building pushing through an ANGRY CROWD. BACK TO SCENE Dexter watches Ed, intently. DEXTER (V.O.) (CONTD) Police slogged through hundreds of angry emails so my Mr. Walkers were given no special regard. (then) They, of course, lacked the benefit of a killers intuition. As Dexter takes a sip of coffee, Eds gaze locks on him. ED Blue shirt, in back. footprint. Nice carbon

As Ed approaches, Dexter looks up, puzzled. ED (CONTD) Are you genuinely oblivious that a Styrofoam cup to me is like a cape to a bull? DEXTER Oh. Sorry. Thats how they serve a latte at the Java Hut.

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ED So you dont own a mug? (off Dexters hesitation) Its a washable, reusable vessel for hot beverages. People CHUCKLE and crane their necks to see Dexter. ED (CONTD) You can keep one in your car and take it into any coffee shop. Really, you should get one, theyre all the rage. DEXTER (forcing a smile) Ill be sure to do that. Ed turns to the group. ED To wrap up today, Im leaving you with a souvenir. A bookstore CLERK starts passing out GREEN PAPER BAGS. ED (CONTD) This is your trash bag for the next seven days. As you can see, its smaller than a grocery sack, but far larger than my glove compartment. The crowd breaks up, people APPLAUD, start lining up for autographed books. Dexter cocks an eyebrow. DEXTER (V.O.) Sorry, Ed, if I prove what I think is true... Im gonna need some Heftys. Dexter smiles, a hint of anticipation on his face. a FLASHBULB startles him out of his reverie. Suddenly

A twenty-something, ponytailed DUDE is taking candid shots of the crowd. Dexters eyes FLASH ALARM. DEXTER (V.O.) (CONTD) After all the painstaking precautions Harry taught me... hed frown on photos of me with my would-be victim. Dexter beelines for the Dude, plastering on a smile.

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DEXTER (CONTD) Here, let me. You can be in a photo. He plucks away the CAMERA without waiting for an answer. Oh, okay. DUDE Cool.

The Dude sidles up to Ed, along with a couple of FANS. Dexter PRETENDS to line up a shot as he SCROLLS THROUGH THE PHOTOS, DELETING the ones hes in. DEXTER A scooch closer. Dexter holds up a palm, STALLING, till hes done. DEXTER (CONTD) Thats good, hold it. ED Dont cut off any heads. An ironic beat. Dexter looks up --

DEXTER I wouldnt dream of it. He snaps the photo, then hands back the camera, hiding a SIGH OF RELIEF. DEXTER (V.O.) (CONTD) Safety first was Harrys cardinal rule. And once again, it remains intact... FLASHBACK TO: EXT. MORGAN HOUSE - DAY HARRY kneels by the house, eyeing a mangled petunia in the flower bed. TEENAGE DEXTER (16) and TEENAGE DEBRA (14) look over his shoulder. HARRY Someone crushed your mothers petunias. Any idea who? Debra shoots Dexter a pleading look. TEENAGE DEXTER I, uh, think I stepped here yesterday getting the Frisbee. Sorry.

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Really?

HARRY

Harry indicates a FOOTPRINT in the dirt. HARRY (CONTD) Because this had to be made after the sprinklers came on at six. And its pointing away from the house... Harry glances to a WINDOW above the flower bed. HARRY (CONTD) Like somebody sneaked out this window from the den. Someone with a small shoe. He turns his gaze on Debra. Caught, she switches to offense.

TEENAGE DEBRA Its no fair that I have curfew at eight. You take Dexter out late all the time. HARRY Youre grounded. Go in the house. TEENAGE DEBRA I just went to Beths to play Nintendo. I wasnt gone an hour. HARRY In the house. Debra stomps off. Dexter shoves his hands in his pockets.

TEENAGE DEXTER Whyd you ask if you already knew? Harry fixes him with a look. HARRY I wanted you to see how easy it is. For cops. Okay... ? TEENAGE DEXTER

HARRY Im working a homicide where we found a palm print in the dust on a window ledge. That was the key.

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TEENAGE DEXTER You figured out who did it from that? HARRY Its a puzzle piece, Dex. You only need one to start. Were still building the case, but we know who did it. Harry puts his arm around Dexter, confidentially. HARRY (CONTD) Good cops are smart, Dexter. They can spot the slightest evidence. TEENAGE DEXTER (becoming clear) Then someone would have to be a lot smarter not to leave any. Harrys nod says he can help... HARRY Experience makes a good teacher. END FLASHBACK: EXT. HOTEL & NIGHTCLUB - MORNING - ESTABLISHING HIGH ANGLE ON a beach front luxury hotel. A chic address that houses a nightclub hot spot. In the morning sun it seems peaceful, until... CAMERA CRANES to the rear of the hotel, adjacent to the beach, where a first floor POOL DECK is abuzz with activity. EXT. HOTEL & NIGHTCLUB - POOL DECK - MORNING Dexter dips under yellow police tape, joining a myriad of crime scene PERSONNEL. A quick scan REVEALS -A lush pool side venue for the areas wealthy elite: white cabanas, cocktail tables and decorative potted topiaries. Yo, Dex! MASUKA (O.S.)

MASUKA flags him, Dexter falls into a brisk step alongside, eyeing empty liquor bottles and champagne glasses littering the area. DEXTER Looks like someone had a party last night.

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MASUKA Try every night. This is the scene, baby -- the pool terrace for Orchid. DEXTER Ill make a leap and guess nightclub. MASUKA J-Los fave according to the rag mags. You gotta be smokin hot or McBitchin rich to get past the rope. (frowns; hes tried) Fucking bouncers. They round the corner of the pool and cross to -A BLOOD SPLATTERED CABANA -- where BATISTA hovers over the BODY of a pretty CUBAN MAID sprawled on the cement. Her housekeeping uniform is soaked in blood where shes been STABBED several times. Dexter kneels to examine her. BATISTA Meet Rosa Orta, twenty-two... She rolled out her cleaning cart after the club closed at four AM. Some pendejo did this shit by six. DEXTER Find a weapon? BATISTA Gardening shears were fished outta the pool. Masuka moves off, shaking his head. MASUKA Chlorines gonna fuck us on fingerprints. Dexter tilts his head, eyes following BLOODY SHOE PRINTS heading toward the fenced perimeter and GATE. DEXTER Whats down there? DEBRA hustles up, beaming. DEBRA Beach access. Fucker musta hightailed it across the sand.

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Dexter looks up at his sister, a slight smile. DEXTER Youre always so aglow at a crime scene, Sis. DEBRA Shit, yes. Better than canvassing on fucking cold cases. Debra kneels alongside Dexter, studying the vic... DEBRA (CONTD) He stuck her... three, four times? Got an artery in her neck, too. LAGUERTA (O.S.) I doubt forensics needs your help, Officer Morgan... Debras face tightens as LAGUERTA walks up behind them. LAGUERTA (CONTD) Though the techs could use more hands sorting through the trash. DEBRA Dumpster diving. Cant wait. As Debra heads off, annoyed, LaGuerta calls after her: LAGUERTA And get those lookie-loos out of here. EXT. POOL DECK - TAPED PERIMETER - SAME TIME Across the deck, a crowd of LOOKIE-LOOS push up against the yellow tape. Debra strides over to them. DEBRA Back it up people! Give us room.

A well-dressed man slips under the tape -BURKE Hey sweetheart. Could you come here? She turns and raises an eyebrow at RON BURKE, 42, trim and well-manicured, an air of entitlement. DEBRA Get back behind the tape, sir.

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BURKE Its okay, Im Ron Burke. I own the hotel. (gestures) When can you get all this cleared out for me? DEBRA Were processing an active crime scene here. BURKE Its a tragedy of course. But this is a business and I have a private party booked tonight. My girls need to start setting up by five. DEBRA (a sarcastic smile) Well try not to inconvenience you. Thanks. BURKE Youre a doll.

Like a reflex, he gives Debra a pat on the butt as he walks off. She spins around, astonished, but hes already gone. Masuka walks past, noticing Debras pinched expression: MASUKA Whats up, Morgan? constipated. You look

DEBRA Some jerkoff just patted my ass. MASUKA Well, you do have a great ass. Debra shoots him a disgusted look and stalks off. MASUKA (CONTD) Try to give a broad a compliment. OFF Masukas shrug, we go back to... EXT. POOL DECK - BLOOD SPLATTERED CABANA - SAME TIME Dexter and LaGuerta look at a CRIMSON SPRAY of blood arcing across the back canvas like a gruesome piece of modern art. LAGUERTA Dexter -- First impressions?

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DEXTER The initial blow was here. Thats arterial spurting from the severed carotid. He gestures to droplets that soil a chair cushion. DEXTER (CONTD) Elliptical droplets are castoff from the weapon. They step over to the victim on the concrete. DEXTER (CONTD) The accessory wounds were inflicted here, as her blood pressure dropped. Indicated by low velocity seepage. La Guerta pauses, regarding the poor girl with compassion. Pobrecita. LA GUERTA No one deserves this.

DEXTER (V.O.) Thats not entirely true... INT. HARDWARE STORE - DAY Dexter puts a box of TRASH BAGS in a shopping cart. it down the aisle. DEXTER (V.O.) I wont act till I have proof. But like a good boy scout, I can be prepared. Dexter loads one roll of PLASTIC WRAP into the cart. Then he grabs one innocuous roll of DUCT TAPE from a display. DEXTER (V.O.) (CONTD) Bulk buying would be easier, but far too conspicuous. Evidence is in the details, Harry would say. Dexter starts away, then turns back. DEXTER (CONTD) But even Harry would agree... that's a really good price on duct tape. As Dexter adds a second roll to his cart-load of killing supplies, we go to... FLASHBACK: Pushes

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EXT. WOODS - DAY Teenage Dexter tears through the woods, sweat glistening on his solemn expression. HIS FEET fly over the underbrush. Crunching twigs.

Dexter tucks himself behind a tree to catch his breath. After a moment, he peeks back around the tree. Relaxes. As he turns back, a hand CLAMPS his arm. Harry. Frowning. He startles. Its

TEENAGE DEXTER Gee Dad, give me a heart attack, will ya? Dexters heart settles in his chest. HARRY I found the spot. TEENAGE DEXTER (instantly frustrated) But... but I covered my tracks the way you showed me! HARRY (heated) And I could see where you covered your tracks... I found the branch you brushed the dirt over with... Then you trampled underbrush... Dexters shoulders sag. down his own... Seeing his frustration, Harry tamps Harry is stone-faced.

HARRY (CONTD) If that had been a real grave site, it wouldnt have been hard to trace it back to you. TEENAGE DEXTER Im sorry, Dad. HARRY Dont be sorry, be safe. TEENAGE DEXTER (reciting his mandate) I have to be invisible. Harry squeezes Dexters shoulder for encouragement.

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HARRY Well keep practicing. END FLASHBACK. INT. POLICE STATION - BRIEFING ROOM - DAY A few cops are gathered for a briefing. Batista and LaGuerta head it up. A drivers license photo of the victim, Rosa Orta, is taped to the white board. BATISTA No boyfriend, husband or creepy ex in the picture. But our vic was seen last week arguing with this man -Batista tapes an EMPLOYEE ID PHOTO of PHILIPPE JOUBERT to the board: A forty-year old Haitian man with angry eyes. BATISTA (CONTD) -- Philippe Joubert. A member of the hotels gardening staff. Hes Haitian, with a history of clashing with Cuban coworkers. LAGUERTA Joubert has a police record for assault. And no surprise -- our suspect hasnt shown up for work since the murder. DEBRA (O.S.) That the only suspect? DEBRA has entered late. DEBRA (CONTD) Cause theres somebody else Id like to look at. BATISTA Lets hear it, Morgan. DEBRA The owner, Ron Burke. LAGUERTA He was already interviewed. DEBRA Yeah, but Id like to bring him in and turn up the heat. (explaining) (MORE)

15. DEBRA (CONT'D) Hotel staff say hes a rich prick, thinks women serve him. When hes not snapping fingers at them, hes trying to corner em in the closet for a hand-job.

LAGUERTA Sounds like every nightclub, hotel, and restaurant owner in South Beach. DEBRA But this guy has a wicked temper. A cook in the kitchen said he accidentally dropped a tray of appetizers -- Burke shoved his hand onto the grill! Thats pretty unfucking-stable. LAGUERTA Is there any specific connection between Burke and this girl? Sensing LaGuertas disinterest, Debras getting frustrated. DEBRA She worked for him. LAGUERTA So do a hundred other people who arent in the morgue. (dismissing her) The weapon was gardening shears. Our suspect is a gardener. Lets do it people. LaGuerta starts for the door. DEBRA Look, I met this Burke guy and trust me, hes a douche. LAGUERTA And if only that were a felony. LaGuerta pushes past her, exits. INT. POLICE STATION - LAB - DAY CLOSE ON A COMPUTER SCREEN - A VIDEO from Ed Walkers WEBSITE plays. OFF Debras frustration.

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ED The best thing you can do for the planet is purchase everything second hand. And dont toss anything that can be repaired, reused, or donated. Dexter clicks around the site finding videos, schedule of appearances, photo gallery of Ed at various lectures, and YouTube links, among others. DEXTER (V.O.) How does he do it? I lay low, avoid attention, while my new friend hides in plain sight. INCLUDE DEXTER watching, and sipping a mug of coffee. DEXTER (V.O.) (CONTD) But then, why should he worry? When it comes to murder, he leaves no carbon footprint at all. Dexter glances to ARTICLES on his desk about the three missing victims. Headlines read: POLICE BAFFLED. DEXTER (V.O.) (CONTD) And thats fortunate for me. If he were sloppy, hed be caught and Id desperately be seeking a new dancing partner. Masuka ENTERS and Dexter quickly covers the articles and CLICKS the screen closed. Masuka grins, suggesting: MASUKA Try hottiehohouse.com. Then click on donkey and double-jointed. Dexter feigns being interested, raises an eyebrow, cool. Then takes a sip of coffee. Masuka makes a face. MASUKA (CONTD) Dude, you want the herps? Thats Cold Sore Karens mug. Now Dexter makes a face. DEXTER It was on the break room shelf. MASUKA Probably washed with one of those sponges thats growing algae. (MORE)

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(then) Stick with Styrofoam, bro. Batista and Debra enter. BATISTA Got your message. Whats up? Dexter and Masuka lead them to a table with PHOTOS spread out -- close-up shots of the victims cleaned wounds. DEXTER These photos are from the prelim. (gesturing) See the wounds in the torso. Theyre consistent with the gardening shears. Masuka points to a photo of the GASH in the victims neck. MASUKA But the necks a jagged cut. from a broken bottle. Likely

DEXTER There was too much blood at the scene to distinguish it. DEBRA Two weapons... two assailants? DEXTER No. The first strike was impulsive. He caught the carotid by chance. But once the victim was prone, he picked up a more controlled weapon. Why? DEBRA

DEXTER Probably to make sure the job was finished. (looking at photo) Though the spacing between wounds does suggest some hesitation. BATISTA Great. We got a second weapon to find along with the sick-fuck who used it.

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INT. RITAS HOUSE - KITCHEN - NIGHT The quaint kitchen has been transformed to an intimate dinner with candles and cloth napkins. Rita takes a sip of wine as Dexter stabs at his last bites of salmon. DEXTER This is amazing. Did you use a basting brush or magic wand? Rita tilts her head, happily. RITA I thought we deserved some grown-up food and alone time. DEXTER A nice surprise to have you to myself on a Tuesday. And thats not just the salmon talking. Rita smiles. Then she takes a courageous breath. RITA I meant to tell you, Im sorry Cody put you on the spot -- about living here. Dexter waves it off, no big deal. RITA (CONTD) An eight year old doesnt understand thats an adult conversation. DEXTER Put it out of your head. have. Oh -RITA I already

(her smile fades) ...Okay. She takes a beat, a little hurt. RITA (CONTD) So... you havent thought about the future? DEXTER (V.O.) A midnight visit with my favorite environmentalist is on the agenda. Dexter glances at Rita.

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DEXTER (V.O.) (CONTD) But Rita means our future... Dexter quickly pops a bite in his mouth to stall. DEXTER (V.O.) (CONTD) An awkward matter... since serial killers dont make reliable long term consorts. (beat) But short term, Im good at... Dexter swallows. Nods, thoughtfully.

DEXTER (CONTD) I was thinking... Disneyworld. Lets take the kids up next weekend and stay at one of those theme hotels. RITA (meeting his gaze) Dexter, Im talking about next month, next year. Where were going. Dexter drains his wine. DEXTER (V.O.) How do I get out of this? Lie? Make empty promises? Fake a heart attack? (pauses, mind racing) What would a real guy say? He goes with that: DEXTER (CONTD) Why would we want to go anywhere? (lightly) Cant beat the Miami weather. A cloud passes over Ritas face, shes wounded and pissed. Not funny. RITA

Ritas instantly on her feet clearing the dishes. Dexter realizes his error. He comes up behind her at the sink, touching her shoulders, scrambling to fix this. DEXTER I just meant I thought we were there. Here is there. And here is good, right?

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RITA (brusque) Yes, things are good. DEXTER (gently) If it aint broke...

But...

Before she can respond, theyre interrupted by the sound of the front door, and two HAPPY KIDS trotting inside. ASTOR Mrs. Green let us have tacos. CODY But her TV only gets dumb channels. Rita herds the kids toward the bedroom, giving Dexter a last troubled glance. DEXTER (V.O.) (PRE-LAP) I hurt Rita tonight... EXT. ED WALKER'S HOUSE - NIGHT A modest tract home with a carport, and solar panels that look like an alien appendage. Dexter HIDES in the shadows till Ed drives away in his Prius. DEXTER (V.O.) ...But serial killers can't make long term plans. Heck, I dont buy more than four rolls of toilet paper at a time. Distracted, Dexter STUMBLES over a flower pot. Shit. DEXTER (CONTD) Ive got to focus. OFF

He uprights the flower pot, then moves to the side door. Dexter, deftly picking the lock... INT. ED WALKERS HOUSE - OFFICE - NIGHT

Dexter moves through the dark room. The BEAM of his PENLIGHT reveals a mix of second hand furnishings: heavy credenza, mismatched desk, old telephone with a cord, a coffee can repurposed as a pencil cup. A stack of Eds annoying little green paper bags on the desk.

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DEXTER (V.O.) When it comes to sensing killers, my instincts are impeccable. But Harrys code requires hard proof. Dexter searches through the credenza. desk, opening drawers. Then he turns to the

DEXTER (V.O.) (CONTD) What will it be?... A memento, a lock of victims hair... Dexter finds a PHOTO ALBUM in a bookcase. Flips it open.

DEXTER (V.O.) (CONTD) Obituaries make a fine keepsake. Nothing but photographs. He puts it back on the shelf, then scans the room. DEXTER (V.O.) (CONTD) Nothing obvious... (re: furniture) Except that he frequents Craigs List. Hmmm. KEYS RATTLE in the front door. Fuck! Dexters eyes widen.

DEXTER (CONTD)

Dexter scrambles to close all the drawers, then DIVES under the DESK, his PENLIGHT tumbling away. Dexter reaches for it, but snaps his hand back as the LIGHT comes on. Ed walks to the desk, picks up the phone and dials. ON DEXTER - UNDER THE DESK Ed's shoes, inches away. Dexter doesnt breathe.

DEXTER (V.O.) (CONTD) I shouldve heard him drive up. Are my senses dull tonight? (impressed) Or are those hybrids just that quiet? ED (into phone) Hi, Randy. I forgot the bags so I had to swing back by the house. Ill be there in a few.

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Ed hangs up and grabs the stack of paper bags. walk away then stops --- SPOTTING the penlight on the floor. BACK ON DEXTER He cringes. SEE DEXTER.

He starts to

If Ed reaches for the stray penlight, HE WILL Shit! Dexter has no choice -The

And yes, Ed bends toward it.

-- HE DIVES OUT! Knocks Ed's legs out from under him. penlight goes SKITTERING.

Ed SLAMS onto the desktop with a groan, the pencil cup goes flying. Paper bags scatter. Dexters behind him in a flash, putting Ed in a CHOKE HOLD, his face hidden. ED (CONTD) Wha -- What do you want? DEXTER (disguises his voice) Wheres the motherfucking jewelry! ED I dont have any. Im not married.

Ed struggles against Dexters grip. ED (CONTD) And I dont own valuables, I buy things second hand. DEXTER (V.O.) (rolling his eyes) Give it a rest. Dexter SHOVES Ed in a closet. JAMS a chair under the knob.

He drops to his knees searching for the penlight. He scans the floor, spotting it UNDER THE CREDENZA. Dexter cant squeeze his arm under. But

Dexter strains to move the heavy chunk of a credenza. Cant. He glances to the closet door where Ed struggles to shove it open. Its budging. Dexter gives up on the penlight --

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DEXTER (V.O.) (CONTD) He wont notice my penlight. If remarkably he did, gloved hands leave no prints. With that, Dexter races out the door. EXT. ED WALKER'S HOUSE - NIGHT - A LITTLE LATER IN LONG SHOT we see Ed on his porch, talking to a lone POLICE OFFICER whos taking a report. REVEAL this is DEXTERS POV and we are -INT. DEXTERS CAR - NIGHT DEXTER (V.O.) That was messy. But as far as anyone knows, just a failed robbery. Police wont even bother. As Dexter pulls away... DEXTER (V.O.) (CONTD) Ill come back for my proof, and well have our play date yet... Ill bring the toys. INT. DEXTERS APARTMENT - EARLY MORNING A KNOCK at the door. Dexter, groggy and in sweatpants, opens the door to find Debra holding a bag of bagels. DEBRA Carb delivery. She hands off the bag as she enters. DEXTER To what do I owe this early morning bribe? DEBRA Gotta theory to run past you. Dexter yawns, slides onto a stool at the kitchen counter. DEXTER You run, Ill sit. DEBRA I think its fucking weird that our killer, (finger quotes) (MORE)

24. DEBRA (CONT'D) the gardener, switched weapons. You said the first strike was impulsive. But what if the wounds in the torso were bullshit?

Dexter squints, his brain not fully online. Staged. DEBRA (CONTD) To implicate a gardener.

DEXTER Someone trying to cover his tracks. (considering; nods) It could explain why the accessory wounds were atypically spaced. Fucking-A! She paces. DEBRA I knew it.

Reasoning to herself. DEBRA (CONTD) I still think we oughta look at the hotel owner. DEXTER He has a motive? DEBRA He has a temper. And a habit of hitting on his girls. DEXTER You think the victim turned him down?

Debra grabs a bagel and hustles for the door. DEBRA Thats what Im going to find out... If fucking LaGuerta lets me. Good luck. DEXTER Dexter watches after.

Debra heads out with determination.

DEXTER (V.O.) (CONTD) Its ironic. Debras trying hard to make her mark on the world... While I go to great lengths not to. FLASHBACK:

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INT. MORGAN HOUSE - GARAGE - DAY OPEN CLOSE ON a hatchet and hacksaw on a table. PAN DOWN to the floor where Teenage Dexter pulls up plastic sheeting. Suddenly, Harry kneels INTO FRAME. HARRY See how well it kept every speck off the floor? REVEAL the plastic has SAWDUST collected on it. Sure, dad. DEXTER

Harry looks him right in the eye. HARRY Thats going to be important someday, son. When its... (uncomfortable) Fluid. Dexter holds his gaze a beat, knowing Harry means blood. Dexter goes back to work in silence, stuffing the plastic into a black Hefty bag. Harry helps him tie off the bag, changing the subject. HARRY (CONTD) Sorry I had to cancel the hunting trip. Theres a snafu in the case. TEENAGE DEXTER I thought you knew who did it. HARRY We dont have enough evidence to make it stick. Not yet. TEENAGE DEXTER Hes not going to get away, is he? HARRY Were gonna keep on it. (a point to be made) You see, Dex, once somebodys on the radar... its just a matter of time. Their eyes meet. Dexter understands the lesson. END FLASHBACK.

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INT. POLICE STATION - LAB - DAY Dexter pulls pages off his printer as the phone RINGS. checks the caller ID then answers. DEXTER Is this the Iron Chef? INT. RITAS HOUSE - DAY - INTERCUT Rita, on the phone with Dexter, looks troubled. Hi, Dexter. after work? RITA Could you come over I want to talk. He

DEXTER (crap) Okay. Sure. RITA See you then. INT. POLICE STATION - LAB - RESUME Dexter hangs up. Ponders.

DEXTER (V.O.) Marvelous Harry with all his nurturing didnt prepare me for my most difficult challenge: women. Batista and Masuka enter. BATISTA You print the final, Dex? Dexter absently hands them the report. They hover, reading.

DEXTER (V.O.) Is there an ideal outcome for my scenario?... DISSOLVE TO: INT. RITAS KITCHEN - DEXTERS FANTASY Dexter, hair neatly slicked, enters in a Ward Cleaver, buttondown CARDIGAN SWEATER. DEXTER Hey, honey...? Rita turns to him, radiant, an apron tied over her skirt.

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Yes, dear?

RITA

Dexter pulls on BLACK GLOVES. DEXTER Have you seen my reciprocating saw? Rita opens the DISHWASHER. Its filled with hatchets and knives. She removes an ELECTRIC SAW, cord and all. Shiny clean -- TING! -- beaming like Ritas smile. RITA It was caked in blood, but now its spotless. DEXTER Ill be back from dismembering in time to tuck the kids in. She hands him the saw. He gives her a peck on the lips.

RITA Try not to get entrails on your good sweater. DISSOLVE BACK TO: INT. POLICE STATION - LAB RESUME. Dexter comes out of his daydream. DEXTER (V.O.) Killer Knows Best? No. Theres no white picket fence in my future. (beat) But how long can I reasonably stall?... Dexter looks at Batista and Masuka, reading over the report. DEXTER (CONTD) Angel -- How long did you and Nina date before you got engaged? Two years. BATISTA But we moved in before.

That fast? -- Dexter frowns. MASUKA Rita putting the screws to you? (chortles) (MORE)

28. MASUKA (CONT'D) Want to shake a clingy chick, try faking Tourettes. Thats my secret weapon.

Masuka exits. BATISTA Ignore him, Bro. Getting married was the best thing I ever did. And I say that even now, when Im writing alimony checks. OFF Dexter, forcing a smile. INT. POLICE STATION - LAGUERTAS OFFICE - DAY Debra ENTERS, anxious. LaGuertas focused on paperwork.

DEBRA Lieutenant... did you read the report I put on your desk this morning? LAGUERTA The gardener-framed-by-hotel-ownerwith-no-evidence theory? Debras face tightens. DEBRA What about the missing weapon? LAGUERTA Its missing. It tells us nothing. DEBRA It tells us somebody wanted us to find the gardening shears. Debra scrambles to pull out some crime scene photos. holds up one of a BLOODY SHOE PRINT. DEBRA (CONTD) And theres the shoe prints. Gardeners wear sneakers. But thats a defined heel and flat sole. This is a dress shoe. LAGUERTA Forensics verified that? DEBRA ...Not yet. But Id like a shot at questioning this guy -She

29.

LAGUERTA (interrupting) I looked into Mr. Burke. He's a wealthy businessman, respected, and well-connected in the community. I dont want him approached yet. DEBRA Aw fuck me! Were going to back off because hes well-connected?! (without thinking) What kind of pussy political bullshit is that? LaGuertas eyes flare. LAGUERTA Officer Morgan, I get that you really like to bring it to a case. You need to get that I dont always want it. DEBRA What does that mean? INT. BULLPEN - DEXTERS DESK - DAY Dexter looks up from his computer as DEBRA STALKS UP. DEBRA That hippo-hipped puta just took me off the case!... What? Why? DEXTER

DEBRA Shes such an ass-kisser with the suits in city hall. Probably afraid this rich guy plays golf with the Mayor. Debra blows out a sigh laced with simmering rage. DEBRA (CONTD) Im back on cold files. So Ill be stuck down in the records room with dust in my snot again. MASUKA drops off a file, pausing to leer at Debra. MASUKA Hey Morgan, you gonna jump out of the cake?

30.

DEBRA The hellre you talking about? MASUKA At Dexs bachelor party. (suddenly frowns) No, wait, you're the sister. would be creepy. Right? (thinks; grins) I mean, not for me.

So that

As Masuka heads off, Debra turns a glare on Dexter. DEBRA You're getting engaged and didnt tell me? DEXTER Of course not. I asked for advice, Vince misunderstood -Debra PUNCHES him in the arm. Ow? DEXTER (CONTD)

DEBRA You need advice, you come to me. Your sister. All Masuka knows about women is how to inflate them. DEXTER Point taken... (rubbing his pained arm) and lingering. DEBRA As for Rita? -- Just marry her, dumbass. Before she figures out you're socially retarded. Debra exits back toward her desk. DEXTER (V.O.) Along with a good punch, my sister has a point. I'm lucky Rita doesn't recognize my emotional deficiencies. (frowning) Though she may be catching on. EXT. RITAS HOUSE - DAY Dexters on the doorstep holding a POTTED PLANT with a bow.

31.

DEXTER (V.O.) I went to buy flowers, the conventional mea culpa. But why not go green - a plant will be around longer. Even if Im not. (beat) But can it help restore the status quo? Rita opens the door, concern etched on her face, giving the plant only a cursory glance as they head inside. DEXTER (V.O.) (CONTD) It was a lot to ask of a philodendron. INT. RITAS HOUSE - RITAS BEDROOM - MOMENTS LATER Dexter sits on the edge of the bed. says shes been stewing. Ritas body language

RITA We went through a rough period, but I thought we were back on track. We are. DEXTER

RITA On the same track? She holds her gaze on him. RITA (CONTD) I have hopes and dreams for this family, Dexter. And youre a part of them. She takes a breath, it breaks her heart to ask this: RITA (CONTD) But if you have doubts, if youre not in this for the long run... I deserve to know now. DEXTER (genuine) The way I feel hasnt changed. RITA Okay... Then youre hesitant for another reason? Is there something youre not telling me?

32.

DEXTER (V.O.) Volumes. But nothing youd find comforting. He looks at her with a touch of anguish. DEXTER (CONTD) If things are in a good place, why change anything? RITA (firmly) Because, Dexter, normal relationships move forward. Or they end. That simple truth hangs in the air. open holding the TV REMOTE. Cody pushes the door

CODY Mom, it stopped working. RITA It probably needs batteries. As Rita finds some batteries in a dresser drawer -PUSH IN on Dexters face. A dire realization.

DEXTER (V.O.) The penlight... My fingerprints are on the batteries. Fuck! Cody exits with the TV remote and batteries. Rita turns.

RITA Im going to need an answer, Dexter. But Dexter is gathering his jacket and heading for the door, focused on retrieving his penlight. DEXTER Ive got to go. Im sorry. Its, uh, sorry. But, Ill think about it. Dexter shoots her an apologetic look and goes. Rita stares after him, incredulous, as he walks out on her. INT. DEXTERS CAR / EXT. ED WALKERS HOUSE - NIGHT Dexters staked out. are on in the house. The Prius is in the carport. The lights Eds silhouette passes a window.

33.

DEXTER (V.O.) (anxiously) Come on, come on. Take a drive, take a walk. Get on your goddamn bicycle... I could be in and out in four minutes. The lights go out, Ed is in for the night. DEXTER (V.O.) (CONTD) Damn it. (he settles) They say consistency is the hobgoblin of small minds. Call me smallminded, but for me it means survival. Dexter leans back in his seat, resolved. DEXTER (V.O.) (CONTD) Which is why I cant retrieve my penlight while hes home. Unknown variables. Harry would forbid it. Dexter starts his car. DEXTER (V.O.) (CONTD) Ill come back tomorrow when its safe. After all, Harrys rules have been my salvation... FLASHBACK: INT. MORGAN HOUSE - HALLWAY - DAY Harry and Dexter come down the hall. HARRY That was excellent work, Dex... They open Dexters bedroom door and head inside -INT. MORGAN HOUSE - DEXTERS BEDROOM - CONTINUOUS -- where they surprise Teenage Debra, whos snooping through dresser drawers. Debra! HARRY What the hellre you doing?

TEENAGE DEBRA I was just... um...

34.

HARRY You never go through your brothers things! Ever! Do you understand me? His angers so disproportionate for the crime that Debra scrambles to explain. TEENAGE DEBRA But, hes been acting weird. And sneaking around. And comes home with mud on his shoes. Harry crosses to her, slams a drawer closed, his face red. TEENAGE DEBRA (CONTD) I thought he was going to the woods to smoke pot! Dexter almost smiles. Harrys eyes briefly flash relief.

TEENAGE DEBRA (CONTD) (lying; quickly) But if I found any, I wasnt going to smoke it. Harry reins in his anger, but remains firm... HARRY Debra, its not alright to violate someones privacy. Even a family member... especially a family member. DEBRA (sulking) Okay... Can I go? Harry nods. Debra exits and after they hear her bedroom door close, Dexter turns to Harry, brightly. DEXTER Its alright, Dad. She wouldnt have found anything, my knives are hidden. Harry whirls on him. HARRY This is not okay, Dex. is a colossal mistake. suspiciously is worse. DEXTER But its only Deb. A muddy shoe Behaving

35.

HARRY And what if she learned your secret? What would that do to her life? Hed never considered it. horror and shame. Dexters face becomes a mix of

HARRY (CONTD) Its not just the police you have to fool. You have to protect yourself from the people closest to you. Harry puts a grave hand on Dexters shoulder. HARRY (CONTD) And thats how you protect them. OFF Dexter, weighted with this new burden... END FLASHBACK: INT. DEXTERS APARTMENT - BEDROOM - NIGHT Dexter lays on the bed staring. The ceiling fan casts odd shadows on his somber expression. DEXTER (V.O.) Theres no happily ever after with a serial killer. The fan clicks with each rotation, mocking him. DEXTER (V.O.) (CONTD) The honorable thing to do is let Rita go. Give her a chance to find someone appropriate... someone who could be a full time husband and father. (beat) Someone who doesnt have a surgical grade flaying knife hidden in his box springs. OFF Dexter pressing his eyes closed, wrestling with this difficult reality... EXT. BEACH - BORDERING HOTELS - MORNING OPEN CLOSE on a DOG sniffing the sand. He wears a VEST with a city insignia. PULL BACK to see UNI COPS with a SECOND DOG and Batista alongside, searching the beach. Batista is staying in pace while talking on his cellphone.

36.

BATISTA What?! No way! Por cuanto tiempo? (frowning) Well, that screws us six ways to Sunday, Bro... Okay. Batista clicks off. Immediately DIALS another number.

BATISTA (CONTD) Lieutenant... We located the suspect, Phillipe Joubert. INT. LAGUERTAS OFFICE - SAME - INTERCUT LaGuertas on the phone, talking to Batista. Finally! LAGUERTA Great. Hes in custody?

BATISTA You could say that. Hes in the morgue. (a somber beat) Got in a bar fight a few days ago. Carajo. LAGUERTA Dont tell me...

BATISTA Been in cold storage as a John Doe ever since. (beat) Damn good alibi. LaGuerta sighs, frustrated. But she doesnt seem entirely surprised. She takes a beat to regroup, then: Okay... weapon? LAGUERTA Where are we on the second

BATISTA Cadaver dogs are out looking. If it was ditched here, they'll smell the blood. EXT. ED WALKER'S HOUSE - DAY As soon as the Prius drives off, Dexter EMERGES from the shrubs and beelines down the driveway to the side door. DEXTER (V.O.) They say God forgives those who make mistakes.

37.

He quickly works the lock. DEXTER (V.O.) (CONT'D) But the Florida penal system doesnt. (beat) Maybe thats why I dont believe in God. INT. ED WALKER'S HOUSE - OFFICE - DAY OPEN ON DEXTERS FACE PRESSED to the floor. ROTATE CAMERA to show hes peering under the heavy credenza. It PANS the narrow space. THE PENLIGHT IS GONE. BACK ON DEXTER. His face freezes in a look of dread. DEXTER He

No.

Dexters eyes dart back and forth, willing it to appear. tilts his head at a new angle -- still nothing. DEXTER (V.O.) (CONTD) He found it. Dexter sits up, mind racing. DEXTER (V.O.) (CONTD) I couldve killed him the other night, but I adhered to Harrys code: No punishment, without proof of crime. (then) Now he has my penlight, poised to be proof against me. Dexter climbs to his feet and paces. DEXTER (V.O.) (CONTD) What if he takes it to the cops? What if he already has? If they start focusing on me, a whole lot could come out that has nothing to do with simple robbery... (glancing around) My only hope is that its still here somewhere.

Dexter flings open the desk drawers, searches the credenza, scans the bookshelf, pours out the pencil cup. No penlight.

38.

He stands there a beat.

Then... SLAM INTO:

QUICK SHOTS - MONTAGE - DEXTER SEARCHING THE HOUSE We feel Dexters frustration mounting as we see quick cuts of - Dresser drawers, yanked open. - A linen closet, Dexter rifling through sheets. - The bathroom medicine cabinet flung open. - A TV cabinet, Dexter gropes around inside it. - The contents of the refrigerator exposed. We move from room to room until we end in INT. ED WALKERS HOUSE - KITCHEN - CONTINUOUS Every kitchen drawer stands open. Every cupboard door. Dexter looks around the room, hopelessly. Sags against the counter. After a beat, he looks up and -OUT THE KITCHEN WINDOW into the backyard where he sees: a GREENHOUSE. INT. GREENHOUSE - DAY - MOMENTS LATER Rows of plush vegetables grow in pots. Dexter searches through a cabinet full of gardening tools, pots, seeds, pruners, and a TOOL BOX. Dexter opens it. Just tools. Dexter plops down on a potting bench, frustrated. DEXTER (V.O.) I shouldnt be surprised he made a penlight disappear... he made three bodies disappear. Dexters gaze suddenly locks onto something in the corner. He cocks an eyebrow. DEXTER (V.O.) (CONTD) Which begs the question: Whats an efficient way to dispose of a hundredsome pounds of organic material? FOLLOW his gaze to... a small, gas-powered WOOD CHIPPER. CUT TO:

39.

CLOSE ON WOOD CHIPPER - MOMENTS LATER Dexter sprays the triangular metal bin with LUMINOL. turns on a BLACKLIGHT WAND and the bin GLOWS. DEXTER (V.O.) Leave it to an environmentalist to turn his victims into compost. Dexter glances at a hearty tomato vine in a pot. DEXTER (CONTD) Killer tomatoes. INT. POLICE STATION - HALLWAY BY ELEVATOR - DAY Debra exits the elevator lugging a BOX of OLD FILES, a frown seared on her face. She lumbers into -THE BULLPEN Schleping her crap-work toward her desk, she hears: Pssstt. MASUKA (O.S.) Morgan. He

Masuka peeks out the lab door, beckoning her with a nod. MASUKA (CONTD) If I prove you were right about that rich dude, how grateful will you be? Debra drops the box on the floor. DEBRA How far up your ass will my foot be if youre punking me. INT. POLICE STATION - LAB - CONTINUOUS Debra eagerly joins Masuka in the lab. MASUKA Cadaver dogs found the first weapon. A mile down the beach. DEBRA Broken champagne bottle, like we thought? MASUKA And buried in the sand spittin distance --

40.

Masuka holds up a clear evidence bag. His gloved hand removes a blood-splattered SHIRT. Debras eyes go wide. DEBRA The assholes shirt... no shit?! MASUKA (admiring it) Custom-tailored. Must've cost a grand. Man, how good would I look in this?... I mean, without the blood. (back to the point) Silk blend. Bet he sweated like a son of a bitch. DEBRA You can lift the fuckers DNA! MASUKA And the pice de rsistance -Masuka flips over the shirt. Her jaw drops --

CLOSE ON A MONOGRAM -- the letters RB. DEBRA Holy mother of fucking bejeezus. MASUKA (chortles) Knew Id make you wet. DEBRA LaGuertas gotta let me in on this collar, now. Masuka stuffs the evidence back in the bag. MASUKA (off-handedly) Oh, she already sent Batista to pick him up. Debras face grows dark. She locks her jaw, fuming.

EXT. ED WALKERS HOUSE - DAY Ed exits his Prius. As he heads for the house, something on the lawn catches his eye -A STYROFOAM CUP Like a cape to a bull, Ed scowls and moves to it. picks it up, he sees -As he

41.

EDS POV -- a TRAIL of neatly lined up STYROFOAM CUPS leading into the backyard. He follows the trail, picking them up, immensely annoyed. ED What the hell is this? As Ed rounds the corner, Dexter grabs him from behind, plunging a SYRINGE into Eds neck. He collapses, out. DEXTER Now, time for me to take out the trash. INT. KILLING ROOM - DAY ON ED WALKER, his naked body secured to the potting bench with Saran wrap. As Eds eyes flutter open, he sees Dexter looking down at him. DEXTER Congratulations, Ed, youve convinced me to go green. REVEAL they are indeed -INT. GREENHOUSE - DAY Plastic sheeting covers the walls and vegetation. eyes gain focus hes fearful, baffled. As Eds

ED What... what the hell is going on? (recognizing Dexter) You... The guy with the cup. What do you want from me? DEXTER I want you to tell me where you put the penlight. The what? ED

DEXTER Someone broke into your house. left a penlight. Where is it?

They

ED Thats what all this is about, a flashlight? Youre insane.

42.

DEXTER There may be something to that theory, Ed, but if I may, a man who uses human bone meal in a glass house is in no position to throw stones. (holds up a small bone) A distal phalanx. Careless, leaving an entire toe in your potted tomatoes. Ed looks shaken, but tries to cover. ED I dont know where you got that, or why youve created this fantasy, but there are people who can help you -DEXTER Ive already met someone who helped me, Ed. I regret the same couldnt happen to you before you happened to them. Dexter pulls out PHOTOS of Eds VICTIMS. a beat, he speaks with forced calm: Ed blanches. After

ED I tried talking to them. A lot of people did. Ann Trents bullshit theory that global warmings not manmade... and Manos political policies... they were spreading dangerous ideas. Undermining our progress. (then) I had to do it for the greater good. Dexter takes a SCALPEL and slices Eds cheek. He winces.

DEXTER What about Gabby Mills? She was just an intern. Never hurt anyone. Dexter collects blood with a pipette, daubs it on a slide. ED I felt terrible. But she wasnt supposed to be there, and I couldnt leave any loose ends. Eds eyes flash with an idea... he speaks pointedly:

ED (CONTD) You know how that is.

43.

Dexter looks at him, curiously. ED (CONTD) Let me go... and the penlight wont be a problem for you. DEXTER Youre negotiating? Huh. Most people dont feel that empowered under Saran wrap. Ed is stoic. Dexter glances at the three photos. DEXTER (CONTD) Three lives for the price of a penlight? I dont think thats a fair value. ED Its not their lives Im bargaining on. (off Dexters look) You want it back because it poses a threat. Dexter pauses. Is he admiring Eds moxie, or considering his deal. Sensing a reprieve, Ed lays it out -ED (CONTD) Id keep the penlight. Youd keep the toe. Like a mutual insurance policy. Dexter calmly picks up a KNIFE and holds it to Eds throat. DEXTER Sorry. I dont negotiate with ecoterrorists. Despite his fear, Eds face hardens. ED Then Ill never give it up. Know why? If you kill me, I want you to know theres something out there. Something youve left your marks on, and you dont know where it is or when itll come back to get you. (beat) Take my deal. Or take the risk. Dexter absorbs this, then sets aside the knife. the slightest relief. Ed breathes

44.

DEXTER It is a risk... He suddenly shoves gauze into Eds mouth. DEXTER (CONTD) (resolved) But leaving you on the planet is a bigger one. Dexter picks up his SAW and flips down his clear mask. saw BUZZES to life and he LEANS OUT OF FRAME. Then a SCARLET SPRAY rains onto the plastic covered, organically homegrown vegetation. OFF this... INT. POLICE STATION - BULLPEN - EVENING Debras at her desk, fussing with her crap work, sulking. BATISTA (O.S.) Hey Morgan... Batista has entered. He waves her over to the TV MONITOR. The

BATISTA (CONTD) When you look up cocksucker on Wikipedia, guess whose picture you see. He flips ON the MONITOR that shows the INTERROGATION ROOM. ON MONITOR: RON BURKE sits alone in the stark interrogation room. Even now he cocks his chin at an arrogant angle. Ron Burke. DEBRA

BATISTA The second I sat him down he was whining for his lawyer. (then) The lieutenants asking the D.A. to charge him tomorrow. DEBRA Kind of going from zero to sixty. BATISTA You already had the legwork done. Excelente trabajo. As Batista settles behind his desk, Debra watches LaGuerta cross into the coffee room in the b.g.

45.

DEBRA As if Id get an apology or a fucking attaboy. A beat, and Debras on her feet. She peels off toward --

INT. POLICE STATION - COFFEE ROOM - CONTINUOUS LaGuerta pours coffee as Debra walks in, magnificently angry. So. Yes. DEBRA You have a suspect in custody. LAGUERTA

DEBRA My suspect. The one I wanted to bring in four days ago. Now you want to question him? LaGuerta meets her gaze, firm and unapologetic. LAGUERTA Yes, now that we have a shirt with his DNA and the victims blood. And the other weapon. And the shoes. DEBRA The shoes, too? I see you picked up where I left off without missing a beat. LAGUERTA (shortly) Yeah. Thanks for that. Laguerta is clearly annoyed, but her words make Debra's temper flare higher, and she rolls on. DEBRA Maybe this is how I should get ahead in the department. Let other people do the work. Laguerta turns to her. LAGUERTA Why don't you tell me what it is you think you did. DEBRA Hello, I picked the right guy.

46.

LAGUERTA And you wanted to jump the gun before it was warranted. It never occurred to you that a man like Burke can hire a million-dollar defense? DEBRA So, what then?--You back off and give him special treatment? LAGUERTA You cover your goddamn bases! So that when you do go after him you can build a case thats Dream Team proof. Debra locks her jaw, glowering. LAGUERTA (CONTD) Which means exhausting other viable suspects and conducting an investigation beyond reproach. LaGuerta gets right in Debras face. LAGUERTA (CONTD) Trust me, theyll find 70 ways to call us incompetent when we get to court. And Im not letting an overzealous, green homicide detective give them grounds for an acquittal. LaGuerta strides away. OFF Debra, stung...

EXT. WALKERS HOUSE - BACK YARD - EVENING - LATER Dexter exits the greenhouse hauling a full Hefty bag in each hand. He pauses, troubled. DEXTER (V.O.) My friend was right about the penlight. Ive left something behind, a puzzle piece, and Harry would never forgive me for that. He made sure I knew what one slip-up could mean... FLASHBACK: INT. MORGAN HOUSE - LIVING ROOM - DAY A TILTED POV watches Harry standing in the open front door, talking to a fellow POLICE OFFICER.

47.

HARRY (tentative) Whered you find it? We searched for that weapon high and low. POLICE OFFICER The evidence turned up. Lets leave it at that. A feeling of dread falls over HARRY... Pete -HARRY

POLICE OFFICER You know the guy did it. Now we got him. REVEAL Teenage Dexter, watching from the hallway. HARRY (somber) Ill see you at the station tomorrow. Harry shuts the door, leans against it. the shadows with unwitting enthusiasm. Dexter emerges from

TEENAGE DEXTER Did I hear right, Dad? You got the guy who killed that lady? HARRY It seems that way. Dexter frowns, puzzled by Harrys troubled expression. TEENAGE DEXTER That's good news, isn't it? Harry looks at him in inexplicable anguish. HARRY Dexter, Ive given you a lot of rules to follow... Uh huh? TEENAGE DEXTER

HARRY About covering your tracks and staying off the radar...

48.

TEENAGE DEXTER I know, I know, we go over em a million times. HARRY Promise me youll remember them. (urgently) Promise. TEENAGE DEXTER (confused) ...I promise. Harry puts a hand on Dexters shoulder. HARRY I hope Ive taught you enough, son. OFF Dexter... END FLASHBACK: EXT. WALKERS HOUSE - BACK YARD - EVENING RESUME. Dexter picks up the two trash bags and crosses to the carport, puts them down next to others. He glances at Eds Prius, then down at the stuffed bags. DEXTER (V.O.) As if my garbage could ever fit in a glove compartment. He smirks. Then freezes... his eyes snap back to the Prius. CUT TO: INT. PRIUS - A MOMENT LATER Dexter flips open the glove compartment. There, among maps and papers, is DEXTERS PENLIGHT. A huge wave of relief comes over him. And he cant help but smile. DEXTER (V.O.) Taking it to the police never crossed his mind. He needed a flashlight, so he re-used mine. Gotta respect the man; he was green to the end. Dexter pops the penlight into his pocket. INT. POLICE STATION - BULLPEN - NIGHT A cluster of cops head to the elevator. Batista stops by Debras desk on the way. She stares at paperwork, brooding. OFF this...

49.

BATISTA Few of us are going to the Bel Canto. Para celebrar. DEBRA Not really in the mood. Batista starts to leave, then turns back... BATISTA (a sincere compliment) Credit may be hard to come by, but... (what matters) You got justice for that girl. Batista puts on his hat and heads out. EXT. EVERGLADES - NIGHT CAMERA PUSHES THROUGH moonlit cypress trees toward a WHIRRING SOUND, growing louder as we veer into swampland where we find the dark silhouette of an AIRBOAT. DEXTER pilots the airboat and the sound is Walkers small, gas-powered WOOD CHIPPER perched on the deck, grinding away. DEXTER (V.O.) My chosen ones usually win a funfilled trip up the Gulf Stream. But this seemed more... poetic. REVEAL the wood chipper is spewing its output onto the shoreline toward three hungry, grateful ALLIGATORS. DEXTER (V.O.) (CONTD) Now, thats what I call recycling. Dexter turns off the wood chipper. The airboat drifts. OFF Debra...

DEXTER (V.O.) (CONTD) Some people might think my friend didnt deserve to die. That he killed for a just cause. But lives were lost, families shattered. His footprint on the planet was the human devastation left in his wake, no matter the reason. Dexter watches two more alligators emerge from the water to join the feast. He shrugs.

50.

DEXTER (V.O.) (CONTD) Personally, I dont judge any more than those alligators. Like them, I got what I needed. Dexter tips the bloody wood chipper overboard. It vanishes into the dark, murky water. After a beat, his brow furrows. DEXTER (V.O.) (CONTD) So why then do I still feel a void? Dexter ponders as he pilots the boat off down a channel. DEXTER (V.O.) (CONTD) This is not a dark urge that needs attending. But its a need I cant deny. INT. RITA'S KITCHEN - NIGHT Rita ushers the kids toward the bedroom as the phone RINGS. RITA Go get your P.J.s on. (grabbing phone) Hello. DEXTER (O.S.) Hi, it's Dexter. Could I come over? Rita hesitates, her demeanor chilly. INT. DEXTERS CAR - NIGHT - INTERCUT CLOSE ON DEXTER on his cellphone. DEXTER (off Ritas silence) I have a present for Astor and Cody. RITA If you can be here fast, I suppose. REVEAL that Dexter is parked in front of Rita's house. DEXTER I could do that. INT. RITAS HOUSE - KITCHEN - MOMENTS LATER Dexter empties out a shopping bag, SEVEN BOOKS tumble onto the table. Astor and Cody grab them up.

51.

Look, Mom. Wow!

ASTOR Harry Potter.

CODY Thanks, Dexter.

RITA You bought the whole series? Dexter bends to tousle Codys hair. DEXTER I figure if we take it one chapter at a time... Dexter raises his eyes to meet Ritas. DEXTER (CONTD) Well be done by the time the kids are in college. Ritas expression softens. As the kids scoop up the books and go to their room, Dexter and Ritas eyes remain locked. Sensing a rare moment of vulnerability, Rita reaches out and touches Dexters arm, softly. RITA A good book is read slowly and savored. DEXTER Slow... would be good. DISSOLVE TO: INT. RITAS HOUSE - KIDS BEDROOM - NIGHT As Dexter and Rita enter, Astor holds a book up. ASTOR This is the first one. DEXTER Why dont we let your mom start tonight. He sits down by Astor and pulls Cody onto his lap. DEXTER (CONTD) Because right now, I feel a super duper double hug coming on.

52.

Dexter gives them a big bear hug. the book and begins reading:

Rita sits down and opens

RITA Mister and Mrs. Dursley, of number four, Privet Drive, were proud to say that they were perfectly normal, thank you very much.... Ritas VOICE FADES UNDER, as Dexter becomes reflective. DEXTER (V.O.) Will my dark urges ever cease? Harry didnt think so. Its why he taught me to cover my tracks. (pause) But no one is ever really invisible... because each life touches the next. Dexter gazes at the luminescent Rita, and hugs the kids, embracing the moment. DEXTER (V.O.) (CONTD) And those imprints we make on one another are... indelible. OFF this perfect family tableau, we... FADE OUT. END OF EPISODE