SCRIP 01

INT. HOSPITAL WAITING ROOM - NIGHT

CLOSEUP on a man's hand fidgeting with his WEDDING RING.

DAD (39), a father-to-be, sits nervously in the waiting room. A bouquet of flowers and balloons that read "It's a Boy!" sit on an empty chair next to him. He's clearly been waiting for hours.

A door opens, and DOCTOR (30, F) walks in. Dad stands up, excited but nervous.

DOCTOR

Your son has been delivered, and he's perfectly healthy.

DAD

(smiling awkwardly)

You didn't say congratulations.

DOCTOR

(looking around)

Are you alone, sir?

DAD

My sister took my daughters home. It's too late in the night for them to wait up.

DOCTOR

Why don't we sit down for a moment?

DAD (confused, worried)

Okay.

They sit. The Doctor takes a deep breath.

DOCTOR

There were complications during the delivery.

DAD

Is Mom okay?

DOCTOR

Your wife experienced a blood pressure spike during delivery. It’s What we call a postpartum preeclampsia.

DAD (swallowing)

DOCTOR (serious, reassuring)

She's alive. She's in the ICU now.

(The sounds of the world around slowly start to fade, like hearing it from under a pillow.)

DAD

Is it… (chokes up) Is it serious?

DOCTOR

We're still waiting on test results.

DAD

But you can fix her, right?

DOCTOR (nods, but eyes showing no hope)

We're trying everything we can.

DAD

So why are you not with her now?

DOCTOR (pauses, looks around to see noone is around)

Mr. Dad, your wife is conscious now, but soon she won’t be. You should talk to her if you can.

DAD (shocked)

…I don't understand.

DOCTOR

(taking a deep breath, lowering voice)

This might be your last chance, if you want to say goodbye to her.

DAD

I don't understand.

DOCTOR

In the case of multiple organ failure, transplants would be necessary, but finding donors so quickly could be challenging…

As the doctor speaks, her voice becomes so muffled and it is inaudible. We cannot hear anything but a high-pitched beep of ears ringing.

We ZOOM IN on DAD as he shows signs of shock and denial.

CUT TO:

EXT. CAR - NIGHT - RAIN

DAD drives MOM's car home. Their BABY BOY is in a front baby seat. DAD glances at his son, subconsciously blaming him. All the kids are in the car, as well as MOM's hospital bag, but no MOM. We see DAD's face as he looks at his son.

FADE IN:

INT. LIVING ROOM - NIGHT

Dean Martin's "EVERYBODY LOVES SOMEBODY" begins to play softly, casting an eerily nostalgic atmosphere.

We follow the TRACKING SHOT as it glides through the house -- revealing a life once full of joy now stands still in time.

-- Camera pans across the room, showcasing photos of happier times - family outings, the children's birthdays, MOM in every picture, her smile infectious.

-- Among the family photos, a promotional design plan for a book cover "Reality Check" is prominently displayed, bearing DAD's name as the author. The plans are old, untouched for months.

-- The camera finally rests on an overdue bill, a single reminder of the reality they're now in.

We end up in the living room Xmas decorations lay scattered around. The room is dimly lit by the glow of the TV. An empty glass on the table in de coffee table, and a late bill sits unopened among them. The room is filled with the faint echo of LAUGHTER and CHATTER from a wedding movie playing on the TV.

DAD, mid-40s, sits on the couch, his eyes fixed on the screen, a glass of whisky in his hand. He's unshaven, bags under his eyes. The glow from the TV dances on his stubbled face. The dim glow of the screen is the only light source.

On the TV, a younger DAD dances with his wife, their wedding day. A joyous occasion. The song, Dean Martin's "Everybody Loves Somebody" is playing under the wedding video.

We find the DAD, early 40s, unkempt stubble, sitting in the gloom. The glow of the television illuminates his face -- he's watching his wedding video. His eyes are misty but resolute, a glass of whiskey just off screen.

The room is filled with the echoes of a joyful past; the laughter and music from the wedding video, the soft crooning of Dean Martin -- a stark contrast to the silence and stillness of the present.

CLOSE UP on Dad's face, the reflection of the wedding video flickering in his eyes, a thousand emotions swimming beneath the surface.

The camera PANS UP and focuses on the top of the stairs where the THREE KIDS, F3, F13, F16 are peeking down, unknown to DAD. They exchange sneaky glances, a goofy plan brewing between them. The somber atmosphere is subtly pierced by their youthful energy, setting up the next comedic scene.

INT. LIVING ROOM, UPSTAIRS - CONTINUOUS

The three KIDS, F16, F13, and F3, huddle together, planning their "heist." M0 is sleeping deeply next to F16 in a removable stroller seat.

F13

(dressed in a ninja costume, whispering)

Operation: Love Ninja is a go!

F16

(bit tired and slightly impatient, sighs)

Just get this over with!

INT. LIVING ROOM - CONTINUOUS

F13, dressed as a ninja, tiptoes into the room, eyes on the phone. Fumbles up comically, clearly overconfident in her skills to execute her plan, almost get noticed by DAD.

Suddenly, F3 appears next to DAD.

F3 (fingers crossed behind her back, clearly a diversion, part of the KIDs “plan”)

Dad, I had a bad dream. I'm thirsty.

DAD, looks up, noticing F3.

DAD

Alright sweetheart, let's get you something to drink.

F3

Holding up hands like stretching, asking to be picked up while saying mak-mak, pretending to be a little monkey.

DAD complies and carries her into the american kitchen sharing the space with the living room.

F13 takes this opportunity and continues to edge closer to the phone, using darkness and furniture as cover to her advantage.

In the background we see DAD puts F3 on kitchen counter. DAD pours a glass of water, talking to F3 soothingly.

F13 fumbles up the 2nd time. As DAD turns from the well lit kitchen to the darker living room, he nearly spots F13 but again diverted by F3.

F3

Dad, I want pancakes.

The diversion works, DAD begins to make pancakes. F13 breathes a sigh of relief, grabs the phone, quickly starts setting up the dating APP, but fumbles the 3rd time when finished, almost catching DADs attention again.

Suddenly, F3 screams.

F3

There's a spider!

DAD, on high alert, spins around. There is no spider. He turns back and turn on the light switches in the kitchen, that control the light in the living room, only to find F13, frozen in the act of replacing the phone.

DAD

Alright, all of you, come out now!

F16 walks downstairs, joining them.

DAD

(to F16)

I expected more from you.

F16

I was just making sure no one gets hurt.

DAD

Whose idea was this?

F13 raises her hand, grinning.

DAD

And this was your best idea?

DAD looks at F3, still sitting on the kitchen counter.

DAD

(to F3)

And you! Were you part of this?

F3 denies cutely. DAD notices markings on her arm, rolls off sleeves of her pyjamas, revealing 3 symbols hastily made with a sharpie.

DAD

What is this? Glass of water, Pancakes and (rolls up sleeve more, until elbow) a spider?! What, are you John McClane now?

F13

Who?

DAD, a bit hurt that his daughters are not aware of his hero, comically feigns upset.

DAD

That's it, all of you go to your room, you're all grounded for life!

The GIRLS giggle and march upstairs. F16 hands DAD his phone back.

F16 (to DAD, after younger siblings are out of hearing range)

At least you should get laid.

DAD

Aren’t you already grounded enough?

DAD and F16 share a half smile, both acknowledging the joke  that reminds them of MOMs sense of humor, before she goes upstairs.

DAD waits until they're all upstairs and hears the doors close, then turns his attention to his phone.

DAD is holding his phone. He navigates to the dating APP, his finger hovering over the 'delete' button. As he presses are you sure? OK button, a notification pops up and he clicks on that by accident: 'You have a new match'. The message opens, showing that it has been already ‘read’, probably visible on the other side.

ON DAD'S PHONE SCREEN

A chat window opens with GIRL.

DAD (unhappy)

Shit.

GIRL

Hey :)

DAD (comically panicking)

Shit, shit, shit.

DAD

(typing, softly speaking the words)

I'm sorry about this, but my kids...

He leans back, shouting towards the upstairs rooms.

DAD

(yelling)

...who are all GROUNDED FOR LIFE by the way!

KIDS

(OFF SCREEN from upstairs rooms)

Da-ad!

Giggle echo from upstairs from all 3 girls. DAD smirks, shaking his head a bit.

DAD

(typing, continuing)

...set up an account behind my back. They want me to mingle.

ON DAD'S PHONE SCREEN

GIRL

"Mingle"? That is not a word kids use :)

DAD

I believe they used the term “At least get laid.”

After a short text chat in the APP, DAD explains what the kids did.

DAD

I promise I won't bother you again.

GIRL

I do not mind. I have plenty of free time, just lying in my bed all day.

I do not mind.  I'm lying in bed all day -  you must be lazier than I am. - Usually it might be the case :D.

( starts to type anyway I  have to say goodbye now, whe hhe sees next message) - I had surgery.

Shit (To himself) I am so sorry-  why are you- Because of the joke I made. -  you didn't know. and the joke was funny.

Are you in a lot of pain or discomfort right now? Sends, then instant regrets it

Only when I laugh. :)

:D (1st JOKE)

DAD (jokingly, like he used to with MOM)

That lazy, huh? :)

GIRL

I had surgery. <NOTE: add more detail>

DAD recoils, pulling back from the screen as if his own words scalded his fingers, much like a child recoiling from a hot stove they've unwittingly touched. The high-pitched sharp hiss sucked in through his clenched teeth is echoing his realization of the pain his words might have caused.

DAD

(To himself)

Shit!

DAD quickly leans forward, fingers flying over the screen with urgency.

DAD

(Typing in chat, mouthing words to himself)

I am so sorry.

GIRL

^-^

Don't worry.

DAD

You must think I'm a huge idiot.

GIRL

Of course not.

DAD sigh of relief, then frowns a bit when he sees the ‘typing’ icon.

GIRL

I think you're a perfectly average idiot :)

DAD laughs out loud, then catches himself, remembering the (possibly sleeping) kids. He quiets down but his smile lingers.

DAD

:D

I guess I am.

(2 beats)

Anyway, sorry to disturb you.

GIRL

(typing)

Hakuna Matata :)

This makes DAD smile even wider.

DAD

(typing)

My wife loved that phrase.

DAD gazes at his phone, a soft smile on his face lingers for a beat then if fades back to sad.

INT. KITCHEN - NIGHT

We see DAD, palms on the counter his shoulders shaking as he sobs quietly.

DAD, alone in the kitchen, dials SIS on his phone. His face is weary, eyes a bit red.

DAD

(into phone)

Hey, it's me.

INTERCUT WITH:

INT. SIS'S BEDROOM - NIGHT

SIS, in bed next to her WIFE, picks up her phone, her voice groggy but concerned.

SIS

(into phone)

What's up?

DAD

(into phone)

I was thinking about what we used to say... about finding our soulmates, like winning the lottery jackpot twice in the same family.

SIS

(into phone)

I remember.

DAD

(into phone)

I can't help but wonder if I'll ever have that again. What are the chances?

SIS

(into phone, comforting)

It's not about chances, it's about healing. You're still seeing the SHRINK, right?

DAD

(into phone)

Yes, but it's not like the kids, they're done with their sessions after three months.

SIS

(into phone)

Each person copes differently. How was your day?

DAD: My day? (he starts to tidy up the kitchen after the pancakes) Oh, your 3 year old Goddaughter dropped a pearl today. She told me we should have a pet. I asked her what she thinks our dog is? Oh boy, to see her face as it dawned on her, that Douglas is not just another hairy dude living with us. Priceless.

(we hear SIS’ muffled laughter from the other end of the line.)

SIS

That is beautiful. She is such a bundle of joy.

DAD

I might have been a little rough on the kids.

SIS

How come?

(We hear DADs muffled voice from the other end of the line as he briefly explains the “heist”, SIS listening carefully, nodding every couple seconds).

SIS

(in disbelieve but at the verge of laughter)

No they didnt!

(more muffled DAD)

SIS

I would take away their phone chargers for a week.

(more muffled DAD)

SIS

You know the drill, if you think you hurt someone, you owe them a genuine apology. They will understand and appreciate it.

DAD

(into phone, nods)

I should apologize.

SIS

(into phone)

Good. We are way too old for me sitting on your head and farting in your face.

DAD

(into phone, half a smirk)

You're never gonna let that go, huh?

SIS

(into phone)

When I was your age…

DAD (interrupts)

You are only 11 minutes and 38 seconds older.

SIS

(starts over like she heard nothing)

When I was your age, I was asleep by midnight. Clearly, I'm the wise one.

DAD

(realizing the time)

You're right, it's late. I'll let you go back to sleep.

SIS

(into phone, worried)

Wait, I didn't mean--

DAD

(into phone, cuts her off, joking)

Stop worrying about me so much! You're freaking me out!

SIS

(into phone) (beat) (a bit relieved)

Do you want me to come over?

DAD

(into phone)(2 beat)(hangs down head, then shakes it a little, like he cannot believe what happened once)

It is not even close to that night. Don’t worry. (beat) It's almost midnight. Go back to sleep. Sorry to wake you. I love you.

SIS

(into phone)

I love you too. See you tomorrow.

DAD

(into phone)

Good night.

DAD hangs up, but not before we can hear SIS quickly saying Fartface! jokingly on the other end just before they disconnect, putting a soft smile on DADs face, as he contemplates his sister's words.

INT. LIVING ROOM - NIGHT

DAD sits on the couch, looking at his phone. He fumbles, not sure what to do, then finally starts typing.

ON DAD'S PHONE SCREEN

A chat window with GIRL. DAD sends a message.

DAD (TEXT)

Sorry if I seemed rude earlier.

A pause. Then a response from GIRL.

GIRL (TEXT)

You didn't, but I'll pretend you did if it keeps the convo going.

DAD chuckles. He starts typing again.

DAD (TEXT)

Divorce. You?

GIRL (TEXT)

I'm a...widower.

DAD looks surprised. He hesitates, then types a response.

DAD (TEXT)

That must be a hard transition.

GIRL (TEXT)

You are unlike any other woman I've ever met.

DAD's mouth forms a slight smile. He types.

DAD (TEXT)

Your wife was really lucky to have an honest and open man like you.

GIRL (TEXT)

What does an image consultant do? In less than a tweet! :)

DAD (TEXT)

I help people manage expectations, so they don't overreach and fail. We all have an image, how we want others to see us. But yes, it narrows down to relationships.

GIRL (TEXT)

So how come you're single?

DAD (TEXT)

I'm a widower.

GIRL (TEXT)

I'm on drugs :) Post-op, remember?

DAD (TEXT)

Was it an accident?

GIRL (TEXT)

No, this was the soonest date available. I'm a divorcee. We grew up together, so my family was also my social circle.

DAD (TEXT)

Wanna talk about something else?

GIRL (TEXT)

Besides this, my only entertainment is a “Fighting Fantasy” book the nurses looted for me.

DAD (TEXT)

What is that?

GIRL (TEXT)

It's a second-person adventure. "As you walk in the forest, you notice a side path, almost completely overgrown by the lush forest. You curiously investigate, just to discover a hot spring up the path." That kind of stuff.

GIRL (TEXT)

I could be a 200-pound dude in his mom's basement.

DAD (TEXT)

Unlikely, my dear Watson. We matched, meaning my profile says I'm looking for a woman, and someone who's into... Nutella and (insert goofy thing)?

GIRL (TEXT)

Crack fingers. Shit, that hurts so much!

DAD chuckles out loud, then stops abruptly, looking at his phone with a newfound sense of anticipation.

SCENE 6

Then he goes back apologising,

He doesn't really hurt her, but she fake pretends as an obvious joke so he still talks to her a little,

Divorce - we couldn’t have children. - Wow you are brutally honest Because I can block you anytime ;) - Fair enough :) LOL

F: divorce. you? - I’m a (2 beats as ha pauses) widower. - It must be a hard transition. - DAD: Transition - (Thinks for a beat)

M: You are unlike any other woman I have ever met.

3 beats.

Your wife was really lucky having such an honest and open man in her life like you. <honest positive reinforcement>

GIRL: - What does an image consultant do? In less then a tweet! :) -  I help people manage their own expectations, so they do not overreach and fail because of that..We all have an image, how we want others to see us. That is how I help people, shape others' perceptions about them. - Like dating? - More like people tell me what they what, and I ask them targeted questions about that, so they reevaluate how they perceive their reality.(beat) but yes, mostly it narrows down to relationships. Woman want high value men, men want high value jobs. To get women :)

So, it’s dating but in a byzantine way. :) Any good at it? :p

(he smiles, mumbles cheeky) - Queens and Kings seek my council :)

- So how come you are single? - Im a widower.

DAD

How come you signed up to this app today?

GIRL

I’m on drugs :)

Post op, remember?

DAD

Was it an accident?

GIRL

No, I just had nothing better lined up for the Holidays.

DAD

You must have someone to talk to?

GIRL

I’m a divorcee.

We grew up together

so my family was also my social circle.

DAD

Wanna talk about something else?

GIRL

Besides this conversation, my only entertainment is a “Fighting Fantasy” book the nurses looted for me.

DAD

What is that?

GIRL

You know, a second person adventure.

Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—

I took the one less traveled by,

And that has made all the difference.

“You reach an obstacle on your journey, seemingly impossible to overcome. A stranger offers to help you through the obstacle. Would you: 1 Accept the help? 2. Rather try your own?”

“Confused and lost, you reach two roads diverged in the woods. A stranger offering company to the one less traveled by.

Which path you follow? 1. Keep to the safe main road and proceed alone? 2. Take the strangers side on the one less traveled by?”

That kind of silliness. (dismissing the idea that this could be useful in an everyday situation, setting up the 1st meeting at Valentines)

3rd in a quadrilogy, and this is the only one I got. :D

GIRL

I could be a 200 pound dude in his moms basement.

DAD

/Crack fingers. Thy is very unlikely my Dear Watson. You see, we matched, meaning my profile says Im looking for a woman, and someone whos is into… nutella and <other goofy stuff>? (how F13 sees DAD and a partner based on what is important to him)

GIRL

/Crack fingers

Shit, that hurts so much!

DAD is still on the couch, laughing. He types a message.

DAD (TEXT)

You make me laugh. I haven't done that in a while.

GIRL (TEXT)

Well, I'm glad I could help. It was nice talking to you.

DAD looks thoughtful. He begins to type, then erases his message. He starts again.

DAD (TEXT)

It was nice talking to you.

GIRL (TEXT)

Too bad. You really crack me up :)

DAD, puts his phone down, a hint of a smile playing on his lips. He looks thoughtful, contemplative.

DAD (to himself)

Yeah, you crack me up, too.

He stands up, the phone still in his hand, and walks off, leaving the screen on the table.

INT. DAD'S HOUSE - F3'S BEDROOM - EARLY MORNING

Moonlight filters through the thin curtains, casting a soft glow on F3's stuffed animals scattered on the floor. The room is quiet, save for the soft WHIMPER of a child.

F3 (3, cute as a button in her elephant pajamas) tosses and turns in her bed, her tiny face scrunched up in discomfort. Her small hands clutch at her blanket, pulling it closer as if seeking comfort.

Suddenly, the bedroom door eases open. DAD (40, weary-eyed, unshaven) steps in, a silhouette against the faint hallway light. He looks at F3 with a gentle concern, his familiarity with the scene evident in his resigned sigh.

He moves to the bed, sitting on the edge. F3's whimpering grows louder, more distressed.

DAD

(softly)

Shh... It's okay, pumpkin...

He lifts her into his arms, cradling her close. His strong hands, though calloused and worn, hold her delicately, like a treasured keepsake. He begins to sway back and forth, whispering soothing words into her ear.

DAD

(singing softly)

♪ Hush little baby, don't say a word... ♪

The camera follows DAD as he carries F3, still swaying, out of the room and down the hallway. He walks with a practiced ease, each step carefully measured to not disturb the child in his arms.

As DAD wanders through the house, his voice a soft lullaby, F3 finally begins to quiet down. Her fidgeting subsides, her eyes fluttering shut as she nestles closer into DAD's embrace.

They end up in the Living room, DAD sitting on the couch, till holding her as she sleeps.

We hear a singer crossfades singing a version of the song DAD sang, replacing his voice as we dolly back.

FADE TO BLACK

Cartoon scene of a sunday morning kids cartoon.

Cut to F3 watching the cartoon sitting at the kitchen counter secured in a high seat.

INT. KITCHEN - MORNING

F3, in a colorful dress, watches cartoons on a tablet with noise-cancelling headphones on. She eats breakfast, making a mess. DOG is nearby, playfully trying to catch crumbs, punching his wet nose against DADs hand, begging for food, knowing he is not supposed to.

DAD, watching F3, turns to F16.

DAD

I miss your rainbow hair. Why'd you change that?

F16

Maybe I grew up.

DAD eyes her, but before he can say more, F16 changes the subject.

F16

Dad, F13 got her period today.

DAD

What? Really? When?

F16

Today, duh. You should talk to her.

DAD

And you?

F16 sighs.

F16

Dad, I'm not a virgin.

DAD covers his ears, comically shouting.

DAD

Lalala, I don't need to hear that!

F16 grabs her bag, seeing the bus coming.

F16

Yes, you do. Because mom's not here anymore. And, uh, I'm seeing Sean after school.

DAD stares, confused. Vertigo dolly zoom in on his face. A spinning wheel of possible reactions flashes in his mind before it lands on the funniest option.

DAD

Be home by 10!

The front door SLAMS shut. DAD stares out the window.

DAD

Who's Sean?

F13, dressed in Cyndi Lauper-esque attire, storms down the stairs.

F13

Her boyfriend.

DAD

She has a boyfriend?

F13 shrugs, clearly enjoying the chaos. DAD turns to her.

DAD

Listen, about your...uh...situation.

F13

Mom already told me everything. And, I have the internet.

DAD

Isn’t 13 too late for this?

F13

We all started late, even mom.

They talk a bit more. F13 casually drops a bomb.

F13

I hope at least the sex will be better.

DAD spits out his tea. F13 and F3 erupt in laughter.

F13

Dad, you're such an easy mark.

DAD

I should've built a dungeon.

F3 takes off her headphones.

F3

Dad, what's a virgin?

DAD jumps up, testing the noise cancellation on the headphones. Assured, he stammers out a ridiculous explanation about olive oil.

Just then, SIS enters. F3 excitedly greets her. SIS scoops F3 up and heads out, leaving groceries.

DAD finds 4 pages of writing on the table. SIS spots them.

SIS

Were you writing?

DAD

No...

He looks at the pages, realizing he did write last night.

FADE OUT.

INT. SHRINK'S OFFICE - DAY

DAD (40, a grieving widower) sits across from SHRINK (50s, professional but warm).

DAD

(thanks SHRINK)

Thank you for seeing me on such short notice.

SHRINK

(sarcastic)

It's Christmas, I had a cancellation. We have 15 minutes before my next patient. You sounded very excited over the phone.

They sit. DAD pulls out a stack of papers. SHRINK raises an eyebrow.

SHRINK (CONT'D)

(surprised)

Did you finish the book since last week?

DAD

(confused)

Hm? Oh, no, no, no. Remember when you told me to write down everything to process my feelings? These are my notes from the last six months of therapy.

SHRINK's eyes widen further. DAD hands over four pages.

DAD (CONT'D)

And this... I wrote this from my notes.

SHRINK

(reading)

"Transition period..."

DAD

(correcting)

No, it's just "Transition." The dot's a typo.

SHRINK looks at DAD, impressed.

SHRINK

(smiling)

You've made great progress these past few months. We talked about taking you off antidepressants in two weeks. What do you say we do it now?

DAD

(smiling)

I'm already down to 5mg.

SHRINK nods.

SHRINK

This is a huge leap forward. Anything triggered it?

DAD brings up text messages on his phone. They talk about GIRL.

SHRINK (CONT'D)

(puzzled)

You returned to the conversation even after she said it was fine.

DAD smiles at a text. SHRINK notices.

SHRINK (CONT'D)

(observing)

DAD, this is the first time I've seen you smile in six months.

DAD

(defensive)

That can't be true, I smile all the time.

SHRINK

(calm)

When was the last time you laughed at something?

DAD thinks. His face lights up.

DAD

(surprised)

Yesterday. GIRL made me laugh.

Silence. A realization washes over DAD's face.

DAD (CONT'D)

(worried)

Shit. What should I do?

SHRINK

(softly)

What do you want to do?

DAD

(determined)

I want to write again. I want this!

He picks up the pages and shakes them with emotion.

SHRINK

(encouraging)

And what led to that?

DAD

(looking at phone in other hand)

She made me laugh.

DAD looks at the phone again, scrolls down, and sees three smiley emojis.

DAD (CONT'D)

(exasperated)

Three smileys... Three pages. I can't believe this. I have to keep texting her if I want to write?

He puts his face in his palms.

DAD (CONT'D)

(murmuring)

Oh my god, GIRL is never gonna go for this. And neither will BOSS.

INT. BOSS'S OFFICE - DAY

BOSS (60s, stylish, results-driven) sits behind his desk, squinting at some papers. DAD (40, melancholic, writer) watches him nervously.

BOSS

(reading, excited)

Transition! Hah! I love it!

DAD

You really think it's a great title?

BOSS

(blunt)

Shittiest title I've ever seen...

DAD mumbles something about it being a work title. BOSS is not listening.

BOSS

...but you wrote three pages since Emily died six months ago.

DAD grimaces slightly at the mention of his late wife's name. BOSS lifts up the papers, ignoring DAD's discomfort.

BOSS

(excited)

This - is - great! Three pages! I love it! You know which page I like the best? The middle one, because it has the most letters on it. It's like a wall of text. Beautiful! When are my next pages coming?

DAD

That's the pickle. I wrote this after I texted with a stranger. Long story, don't ask.

DAD looks up. BOSS's face clearly shows he wasn't going to ask.

DAD

Shrink said to text back, because...

BOSS

(interrupts)

Deal! You keep texting and writing!

BOSS stands up, signaling the end of the meeting. He starts to walk out, escorting DAD with him.

DAD

It's not that simple.

BOSS

You're a man, make it simple. You have six months left from your one-year contract. I told you, if you visit a shrink and finish a book, any book by the end of that year, I will uphold our end, no matter what. Text back.

DAD looks miserable. BOSS softens slightly.

BOSS

Look, I don't know anything about writing. I just run a publishing company, I don't own it.

DAD

It was founded by your family!

BOSS

And now it belongs to the shareholders, who want us to publish books and make money, which are not completely unreasonable demands from a publishing firm.

You have a contract, and the company paid you an advance, which I imagine even if you could pay it back would be really bad for your family. You have to finish the book, or it's out of my hands.

DAD (giving him a side glance for a beat, knowing he is right)

Yeah, yeah, alright. Easier said than done.

BOSS holds out his hand for the phone.

Want me to do it?

DAD gives him a look, picks up his stuff, and leaves, puffing slightly.

DAD

No, I'm an adult, I can handle it.

BOSS

Great! (waits 2 beats, until DADs is O.S., then a bit louder) Bring me more pages!

INT. DAD'S STUDY - NEW YEAR'S EVE - MIDNIGHT

TV flickers with the countdown and subsequent ball drop at Times Square. In front of DAD, the laptop screen remains open, a cursor blinking at the top of a blank page - a stark contrast to the three pages of writing from last week scattered nearby.

DAD sighs, burdened by his own expectations. He hovers over the APP icon and clicks.

ON THE LAPTOP SCREEN

DAD

(typing)

Happy new year!

A beat, then a reply.

GIRL

(on DADs screen)

Aaaw, you remembered!

DAD squints, confused.

GIRL

(on DADs screen)

No, wait! That's for birthdays :)

DAD's face lights up, a genuine laughter erupting from him.

DAD

:D

You are in good spirits today!

GIRL

(on DADs screen)

You are the only one who talked to me this year, so yeah, I am. :)

DAD

(smiles, more appreciating the effort than laugh, spirits still lifted a notch)

:)

I like talking to you. It helps me focus.

(waits for response, none coming, no ‘typing’ icon)

DAD

Usually this is the time when people reply: I like to talk to you, too?

GIRL

(on DADs screen)

Is it now? My bad, I didnt hear my que! :D

: I like to talk to you, too (clearly a copy paste from DADs previous message)

:D

DAD (smirks)

Well, do you?

GIRL

(on DADs screen)

¯\\_(ツ)\_/¯

DAD

Why, thank you! You really threw some sunshine on that! :)

GIRL

(on DADs screen)

IMHO honesty always trumps asskissing.

DAD

(his face shows he completely agrees)

True.

GIRL

(on DADs screen)

But you are growing on me :)

Like Trump.

Or a tumor! :)

DAD

:D

(Glances at the untouched pages, next to an empty thick based glass, ice cubes still melting. DAD takes a deep breath and dives into a heartfelt monologue.)

DAD

(typing)

Truth?

GIRL

(on DADs screen)

Always! :)

DAD

(typing)

I have a hidden agenda. A favor to ask if you will. I just don’t know how to ask.

GIRL

(on DADs screen)

First, I would try a less byzantine way :)

DAD

I want to talk to you more. Since we started talking, I've felt more alive than I have in ages.

Like there's a little spark back in me, something I thought was extinguished for good. Like a sense of “life”, if it makes any sense.

A long pause. DAD's eyes flick to the "typing..." icon. Then finally, a reply.

GIRL

(on DADs screen)

I don’t want to lead you on. I’m only looking for someone to talk to during recovery. I'm not ready for a relationship.

DAD, sighs with relief. He starts to reply, words tumbling out faster than he can type.

DAD

(typing) (excitedly)

That is GREAT!

He pauses, re-reading his message, panic spreading across his face.

DAD

(typing)

I mean, it is great for me, not for you.

He pauses again, bigger panic spreading across his face.

DAD

(typing)

I mean it is not great that you are not ready for a relationship.

(DAD typing next message when)

GIRL

(on DADs screen)

:D

Please stop!

It hurts my face when I laugh this much! :D

You are really an idiot :)

But at least I know you are honest.

DAD confesses about his writing block since Christmas and proposes the idea of being "penpals".

GIRL

(on DADs screen)

What did your SHRINK say?

DAD

Basically, that you have to make me laugh 140 times for a 140 page book, which is three times as much with editing, so I hope you are a part-time standup comedian, full-time clown.

GIRL

(on DADs screen)

:D

No. I am a program director for WASD.

DAD

No way, that is my favourite radio station! I would never change from that station, like ever!

GIRL

(on DADs screen)

Then you have a great taste in music!

DAD

I know! Ain’t I something, listening to the very same music you edited for the 10 million people of New York and listeners all over the world? I feel special already. :\_)

GIRL

(on DADs screen)

Truth?

DAD

Always :)

GIRL

(on DADs screen)

I like the anonymity between us. It feels that we can share anything without exposing ourself too deeply. I do not want to lose that.

DAD

(quickly thinking through his options, then offering a solution)

(typing)

We can do that. Do not try to look each other up. Sounds good.

GIRL

(on DADs screen)

Just whatever is in our heads, what we ate for breakfast, or a good song for a bad mood. No personal details, addresses.

DAD

(typing)

No pressure whatsoever to know each other. We share what we want to share.

GIRL

(on DADs screen)

100% honesty. No deleting back, not even typos. Typed it? Send it! No BS.

DAD hesitates, his fingers hovering above the keyboard.

DAD

(typing)

That is a tough order. But it's fair.

GIRL

(on DADs screen)

Can you imagine having fake conversations with someone for months?

DAD

(typing)

You are right. Honesty is essential. And no ghosting.

GIRL

(on DADs screen)

Cool.

In this way, if either of us change minds, we can just block the other, never to be heard from again.

DAD doesn’t like that, his face is a whirlwind of emotions.

Long pause.

GIRL

(on DADs screen)(sensing DADs hesitation)

This needed to be said out loud.

DAD

(typing)

No questions though, just what we want to share. And I will be out of your hair the moment I finish the book.

:)

(agreeing with this digital pact)

Their conversation continues into the night, the glow of the laptop screen illuminating DAD's hopeful face, as we dolly away, leaving them talking more through the night.

(They both seem satisfied with the arrangement.)

DAD has found his muse for his book, GIRL has found a sincere companion to share her recovery journey. They both hold the keys to this relationship, an equilibrium that has been missing from their lives.

DAD

(typing)

I’m glad we worked out this incognito thing.

GIRL

(on DADs screen)

Truth: I might have stayed either way.

DADs reaction.

FADE OUT.

INT. DAD'S LIVING ROOM - DAY

DAD sits on the couch, texting with GIRL as he takes a break from walking his dog. The sunlight streams in through the windows, casting warm highlights on the room's cozy furnishings.

DAD (texting)

How come you have no one else to talk to?

GIRL (texting)

I never really "dated." We grew up on the same cul-de-sac, were practically neighbors. We went to school together, fell in love, went to university, and got married. We were always meant to be.

DAD hesitates, sensing this might be a sensitive subject for GIRL. He decides not to press further and changes the topic.

EXT. STREET - DAY

DAD walks his dog while texting GIRL, the leash wrapped around his wrist.

DAD (texting)

What are you doing right now?

GIRL (playfully, texting)

What? Are you a 16-year-old girl now? :)

DAD (texting)

I was just being polite, thank you very much. Sorry about the sarcasm. But no taking back, remember?

GIRL (texting)

Sure, I do. I'm eating my second hot dog for breakfast. There's this amazing vendor who shows up near my house every few days. I'm sure he spikes these hot dogs with something addictive. And I already had breakfast at home, so this is like a second breakfast. I'm about to burst. Now you tell me something, let me eat in peace. I'm almost at the subway.

DAD (texting)

I'm walking my dog, but I could go for a hot dog. Think I'll try to see if my favorite hot dog vendor is nearby. If he's here, we can be the second breakfast club. You never know what you'll get on the street, good hot dog, bad hot dog, salmonella. But there's this guy, I call him the wandering vendor because he's never in the same place the next day. He just goes around the neighborhood. But the hot dogs are OMG. He has this special sauce, which I've never tried because it looks super red and spicy like it's mad at me. Maybe I'll give it a go today.

GIRL (texting)

Aww, Mrs. Robinson! Someone lost their cat.

DAD (texting)

Must be a common cat name; I'm just walking past a poster like that. Maybe I should check on Bleecker Street?

GIRL (texting)

Nice, trying to get in my good graces with music references. Crafty!

As they continue texting, they accidentally discover they both live in the same New York district when they witness the same event.

DAD (texting)

Alex lives in Fort Greene, too!

CUT TO:

INT. BOSS'S OFFICE - DAY

DAD sits across from BOSS, who looks at him with an emotionless face.

BOSS

Sooo… do you have more pages for me?

INT. DAD'S HOUSE - LAUNDRY ROOM - DAY

Sunlight filters through a dusty window, illuminating the room. DAD (40, unkempt, sorrow in his eyes) is hunched over a laundry basket, handling an assortment of WOMAN'S CLOTHES. He stares at them, lost in a memory. His hands shake slightly, the last remnants of his medication leaving his system.

His phone BUZZES on a nearby table. He glances at it, revealing a text message from GIRL.

ON PHONE SCREEN

GIRL: "You doing okay?"

DAD, typing.

DAD: "Her clothes...they're starting to lose her scent."

GIRL: "You know you shouldn't do that."

DAD, his fingers hovering above the screen, uncertain.

DAD: "I know."

GIRL: "You absolutely shouldn’t do that!"

DAD, pausing, his gaze falling on a floral dress.

DAD: "I know."

GIRL: "Give them to charity. Pack it all up, today. Let them do some good."

INT. DAD'S HOUSE - LIVING ROOM - NIGHT

The house is quiet. DAD sits alone, the laundry basket of clothes beside him. Valentine's Day decorations, remnants of a happier time, hang listlessly around the room.

ON PHONE SCREEN

GIRL attempts to lighten the mood with jokes, but the words fall flat on the screen. DAD responds, his words carrying a heaviness.

DAD: "I don't want to chat anymore."

GIRL

Tough shit. No ghosting, remember?

He places the phone on the coffee table, screen glowing in the dim room. He looks at the laundry basket, the clothes still untouched.

FADE OUT.

This scene explores DAD's grief and struggle to move on. It sets the stage for his emotional journey, showing his connection with GIRL and the depths of his sadness.

FADE IN:

EXT. A SUBURBAN KITCHEN - NIGHT

Snow flutters down, dusting the Valentine's decorations in the quiet streets, mimicking a winter wonderland.

INT. KITCHEN - CONTINUOUS

DAD, ruggedly handsome yet somber, moves methodically, washing dishes. His gaze drifts to an untouched glass of whiskey on the counter beside an open bottle.

The PHONE BUZZES. Dad's gaze shifts. The phone's screen lights up with a message from GIRL.

TEXT MESSAGE: “Confused and lost, you reach two roads diverged in the woods. A stranger offering company to the one less traveled by. Which path you follow? 1. Keep to the safe main road and proceed alone? 2. Take the strangers side on the one less traveled by?”

DAD'S FINGERS hover over the screen.

TEXT MESSAGE (from DAD): Not in the mood now.

2 I guess

Dad drops the phone, eyes drawn back to the whiskey. Then, the phone BUZZES again. He reads the message, hesitates, and leaves the kitchen. The glass of whiskey remains untouched.

EXT. FORT GREENE, BROOKLYN - NIGHT

The adventure begins. Dad traverses through the city, following GIRL's instructions. They explore hidden nooks and crannies, uncovering local secrets.

EXT. FORT GREENE PARK - NIGHT

Dad arrives at the entrance of the park. His gaze scans the "Park Closed" sign. He hesitates, then steps forward, disappearing into the park's shadows.

EXT. FORT GREENE PARK - LATER

Dad arrives at a large art installation, a top-down YIN YANG symbol split by a tall, milky glass sheet.

TEXT MESSAGE (from GIRL): Do you want to not meet again?

Dad steps onto the circle, activating the lights. He hesitates, then reaches out, placing his palm on the milky glass.

VOICE FROM BEHIND THE GLASS: You know that you talk when you type?

Dad pulls back, startled.

VOICE FROM BEHIND THE GLASS: Run!

Before Dad can react, FLASHLIGHTS blind him. He's caught.

EXT. FORT GREENE PARK - MOMENTS LATER

Out of shape SECURITY GUARDS escort Dad out of the park, boasting about their importance and authority. Dad merely smirks.

Once alone, he picks up his PHONE, reading a message from GIRL.

TEXT MESSAGE: Sorry you got arrested :D

Dad smiles and types his reply.

TEXT MESSAGE (from DAD): Worth it :)

FADE OUT.

INT. COFFEE SHOP - DAY

A bustling coffee shop, the HUM OF CONVERSATION blending with the SOUND OF A BARISTA working an espresso machine. The sun casts a warm, golden light through the large windows.

DAD (40, a quiet intensity about him, still wearing the vestiges of grief like an old, familiar coat) stands in line with SIS (mid-30s, caring and strong, her eyes flicking over DAD with concern) for overpriced lattes.

They're in the middle of a conversation:

DAD

It was strange, y'know? Meeting without really meeting.

SIS studies him, picking apart his words, trying to understand.

SIS

But it felt good?

DAD gives a nod, then a shrug, his emotions a tumultuous sea beneath a veneer of calm.

DAD

Yeah, it did. And... I feel guilty for feeling good.

In the front of the queue, GIRL (22, mystery and elegance personified in her red and white attire, her voice not yet known to DAD, as warm and inviting as a fire on a cold winter's night) places her order. Her voice has a raspy quality, reminiscent of Emma Stone.

GIRL

Could I get a medium Americano, please?

DAD and SIS continue their conversation, oblivious to the presence of GIRL.

Their lives intersecting without their knowledge, they remain strangers in the same space. The tension of the unspoken, the connections not yet made, hangs in the air.

FADE OUT.

INT. DAD'S LIVING ROOM - DAY

Sunlight slants through the blinds, casting hatched shadows on the room's cozy clutter: dog-eared books, family pictures, and remnants of a father's scattered attempts at domesticity. DAD, a middle-aged man worn by grief yet resilient, sits in an armchair, the faint hum of a child's laughter echoing from another room. His mobile RINGS, it is GIRL on APP, first time calling.

DAD (surprised, thinking what to do.)

(to himself)

Please, don’t be  a 200 pound dude in his moms basement. (reference to earlier conversation in another scene)

DAD picks up.

(into phone)

Hello?

GIRL (V.O)

(smiling)

Hello, stranger…

Her voice, has an appealing raspiness to it, like a beautiful melody played on an aged violin. DAD is stunned by the beauty of it.

GIRL (V.O)

Sooo, my voice seems like it's going to stay this "raspy", so I thought I call you? (voice is fading off a bit as she is afraid that DAD wont like her voice) C'est la vie, right?

DAD

(enthused)

Are you kidding me? You sound like... that actress... Emmaaa... Emma… (jumps up, start walking up and down, snaps fingers) Emma Whats-her-face from the… thing with the, with the… (his face lights up) guy!

GIRL (V.O)

(laughs)

You really narrowed it down...

Without missing a beat, she begins listing off famous Emmas. Her voice dances over the names, pictures of Hollywood glamour flashes as they run through DAD's mind. They are all show in an extremely flattering image, which still relatable and down to earth. Showing DADs respect for women by not sexualysing them in his mind.

DAD

(excited)

Emma Stone, yes!

GIRL (V.O)

(laughs)

Not in my head...

She LAUGHS again, a rich sound that fills the room and echoes in DAD's heart.

DAD

(sincere)

Record yourself. Hear it for yourself.

The call cuts off abruptly. DAD stares at his phone, puzzled. Then it RINGS again. He picks it up.

GIRL (V.O)

(jubilant)

I DO totally sound like Emma Stone!

DAD

(grinning)

Told you.

GIRL (V.O)

(enthusiastic)

And now I know how Emma Stone sounds inside her own head! Do you think I could be her inner monologue double?

DAD

(laughs)

How would that work exactly?

GIRL (V.O)

(thoughtful)

I haven't figured out the details yet...Maybe I should just make a 900 number and tell people what I'm wearing.

DAD

(teasing)

Now we're talking!

They share a BURST OF LAUGHTER, a moment of joy shared between them, ringing out in the quiet room. As the laughter fades, a warm silence settles. DAD sits, phone pressed to his ear, a lingering smile on his face - the first in a long time.

FADE OUT.

This scene illustrates the strong bond developing between DAD and GIRL, showcasing their shared laughter, GIRL's sharp wit, and DAD's growing admiration for her. It foreshadows the deep relationship they will continue to build in the story.

END OF SCRIPT (SO FAR)