FADE IN:
EXT. SCHOOL - PICKUP AREA - DAY
Kids run amok while others sit on a bench.
Under the watchful eyes of MS. ALCALA, each child leaves with
an adult. One by one, they wave goodbye.
A man, CHRIS BROWN, walks towards the children.
MS. ALCALA
Come along, Alan. Your daddy's
here!
ALAN LEE, (6), pries Ms. Alcala's fingers away.
ALAN LEE
He's not my Papa.
Alan runs towards another man, PAUL LEE, approaching.
ALAN LEE
Papa! Papa!
PAUL LEE
Ha...Ms. Alcala, how could you? You
should know your flock better.
MS. ALCALA
Oops! Sorry, Mr. Lee. Sorry, Mr.
Brown. I mistook you for Alan's
daddy.
CHRIS BROWN
It's alright.
(squats and opens his
arms.)
Kenney, come to daddy!
KENNEY BROWN, (6, carrying a Pokemon toy), wobbles into Chris
Brown's embrace.
CHRIS BROWN
(smiling)
How's school?
Kenney is silent and makes not eye contact.
Ms. Alcala interrupts.
MS.. ALCALA
Mr. Brown, your son has shown much
improvement today.
CHRIS BROWN
(skeptical)
Yeah. He's still not uttering any
words.
MS.. ALCALA
Mr. Brown, you can't rush things.
Kenney's a special boy. He WILL
speak.
CHRIS BROWN
Or he WILL never speak.
MS. ALCALA
Mr. Brown...no...you shouldn't say
that. By the way, our school is
organizing early intervention
programs for special needs children
during the summer break. If you --
CHRIS BROWN
-- Yes, yes, another program.
(voice tapers off)
More money down the drain...
MS. ALCALA
You were saying, Mr. Brown?
CHRIS BROWN
Eh...nothing. I'll sign up anyway.
MS. ALCALA
That's the spirit. A miracle, I'm
sure, for your boy. I'll send you
the details via WhatsApp.
CHRIS BROWN
(softly)
Whatever.
MS. ALCALA
Mr. Brown, you may want to check
out the new playground over there,
especially the Pirate Ship Swing.
It's awesome, Kenney will love it.
Kenney struggles to pull away from Chris Brown's hand, his
gaze fixated on the playground. Chris Brown hesitatingly lets
go of him.
CHRIS BROWN
(raising his voice as
Kenney runs off)
Okay, Kenney...don't touch or hold
stranger's hands! Don't TAKE other
children's toys!
Kenney is already swinging hard in the Pirate Ship.
EXT. PLAYGROUND - DAY
An OLDER CHILD flies his kite. Kenney sees it and lunges for
the kite reel winder.
OLDER CHILD
Don't...gimme back --
An ADULT MAN, showing displeasure, stands up behind the Older
Child.
Chris Brown rushes forward, takes hold of the reel winder,
and pries Kenney's finger off of it. He returns the reel
winder to the Older Child.
CHRIS BROWN
A thousand apologies. My son's...eh
...a special child.
ADULT MAN
(displeased)
It's okay. Just children.
Chris Brown forcefully pulls Kenney to his side and walks
away from the playground.
The Adult Man and his Older Child look on from the
background. The Older Child picks up a pebble and throws it.
The pebble falls "thug" "thug" "thug" on the grass patch in
front of Chris Brown.
OLDER CHILD (O.S.)
DIM-WIT!
Chris Brown clenches his fist and continues walking, never
looks back.
INT. PAUL LEE'S CAR - DAY
EVELYN LEE, (Paul Lee's wife), sits in the passenger seat
with Alan as Paul drives.
EVELYN LEE
(to Alan)
Have you done your revision? Your
test's around the corner. I've
asked Ms. Saunders to give you MORE
homework.
Alan gazes absent-mindedly out the window.
PAUL LEE
Shucks! You've got tuition later
this afternoon. I completely
forgot.
Paul turns the steering wheel abruptly.
ALAN LEE
Papa, you told me kite flying
later.
PAUL LEE
No kite flying for today. You have
a tuition, remember?
ALAN LEE
I member you plot-miss me fly kite.
PAUL LEE
RE-member and PRO-mise. What sort
of freaking English has Ms.
Saunder's been teaching you!
EVELYN LEE
Paul, please, mind your language.
(to Alan)
Alan, be a good boy. Mummy will
take you kite flying tomorrow.
PAUL LEE
Tomorrow's out. I've enrolled him
in Tony's classes.
ALAN LEE
MUMMY! You plot-miss meee!
PAUL LEE
Even if you're not attending Tony's
classes, we are not going kite
flying tomorrow. Papa and mummy
need to work. We are working hard
for your future. You'll understand
one day.
EVELYN LEE
(softly)
Paul, don't you think the lessons
are a little too many?
PAUL LEE
Not at all. If only my parents did
to me what we are doing for Alan, I
would have been SOMEONE by now.
EVELYN LEE
Yeah, and had you become that
SOMEONE, I daresay I wouldn't be
the ONE by your side right now.
You've changed.
PAUL LEE
Yes, but all the wiser.
EVELYN LEE
NOW is Paul's formative years. If
we miss out on them, we'll live
rest of our lives with regret.
PAUL LEE
We're not missing out, and he may
grow up with regrets just as I did
with my parents.
EVELYN LEE
Don't be so ungrateful. Just be
quiet and drive, for Christ's sake.
PAUL LEE
Alan, make sure you study hard to
get into the...whatever you call
it...the top or best class next
year. Don't disappoint Papa.
Alan lifts up his name card tag round his neck, and presses
it against the window. With his other hand on the neck
ribbon, he mimics the action of pulling an imaginary kite. He
makes the SWOOSHING SOUND of wind blowing.
INT. CHRIS BROWN'S LIVING ROOM - DAY
MICHELLE BROWN, (Chris Brown's wife and homemaker), cares
full-time for Kenney Brown.
CHRIS BROWN
Michelle, we're back.
MICHELLE BROWN
Kenney, my dear. How was school?
Mummy has made you chicken noodle
soup, your eternal favorite.
Kenney remains silent and takes Chris' hand.
CHRIS BROWN
Not my favorite at least. I guess
it's the same noodle soup for me as
well.
MICHELLE BROWN
Dear, we're a family. We eat the
SAME food and sleep in the SAME
bed.
CHRIS BROWN
Yeah, and flush our shits down the
SAME toilet.
MICHELLE BROWN
Enough of that. Help me to ready
the iPad and the teaching
apparatus. Kenney's online Zoom
lesson starts in half-an-hour.
CHRIS BROWN
Again? Does this lesson actually
help?
MICHELLE BROWN
Enough of your nonsense. I've
sacrificed my career for Kenney and
I'm not giving up now. Can you
just do what you're told, for
Christ's, or for Kenney's, sake?
CHRIS BROWN
Alright...but I've got a meeting
later. I'll be back late.
MICHELLE BROWN
Again! You are shirking your
responsibility to Kenney --
CHRIS BROWN
-- Don't you say that! I'm the one
fetching our boy to-and-from
school.
MICHELLE BROWN
That's about it.
CHRIS BROWN
Look woman...I...like all parents,
yearn to teach him all that I know,
things I did, things I wish I'd
have done, and things I didn't. But
Kenney doesn't understand any of
this. He's a gone case. He's
forever mentally handicapped. You
should jolly well know that he'll
never get married and never have
kids. And I cannot even imagine the
shit life will throw at him when
we're gone.
MICHELLE BROWN
Enough of that. I'm not giving up
any hope, however elusive. I LIVE
for Kenney.
CHRIS BROWN
Don't forget to LIVE for
yourself...for once.
MICHELLE BROWN
That's a luxury NEITHER of us have.
CHRIS BROWN
(walking out)
I'm out of here.
The DOOR SLAMS.
Kenney lifts his Pokémon to his face, kisses it gently, and
rests the furry toy on the desk, caressing its ears.
Educational toys fill up the rest of the desk and floor.
INT. CHRIS BROWN'S CAR - DAY
Blue-tooth speaker phone in Chris Brown's car rings.
CHRIS BROWN
Chris Brown speaking.
INT. DR. BLACKBURN'S OFFICE - DAY [SIMULTANEOUS]
Dr. Blackburn sits at his desk on the phone.
DR. BLACKBURN
Mr. Brown. This Dr. Blackburn,
Chief Executive Officer of
Cleveland General Hospital, the
hospital which your son Kenney
Brown was delivered.
INT. PAUL LEE'S CAR - DAY [SIMULTANEOUS]
Paul drives with Alan in the backseat. His phone RINGS and he
answers via bluetooth.
PAUL LEE
Hello?
INT. DR. KACZYNSKI'S OFFICE - DAY [SIMULTANEOUS]
Dr. Kaczynski sits at his desk on the phone.
DR. KACZYNSKI
Hi Paul. This is Cleveland General
Hospital. I'm Dr. Kaczynski, the
Chief Admin Officer. Your wife
delivered your son Alan in our
hospital.
INTERCUT: CHRIS/DR. BLACKBURN/PAUL/DR. KACZYNSKI
CHRIS BROWN
Hi Doc! What a surprise. Don't tell
me you are chasing us down for some
century old medical bills we did
not pay?
PAUL LEE
What's up, Doc! I hope you didn't
just realise that you've left some
surgical tools inside my wife
during the caesarean.
DR. BLACKBURN
No...no...you've quite a sense of
humor, Mr. Brown. This is rather
confidential...
DR. KACZYNSKI
Is it convenient to talk now?
CHRIS BROWN
Yeah...make it snappy.
PAUL LEE
Go ahead. Make my day.
DR. BLACKBURN
On the behalf of Cleveland General
Hospital, allow me to apologize to
you and your family. We've reasons
to suspect that there is a
possibility, although not
definitively yet, that our hospital
might have been negligent and...
DR. KACZYNSKI
...might have placed two babies in
the wrong beds with the wrong
identification tags.
FEET SLAM on the brakes. TIRES SCREECH, HORNS BLARE, a CRASH -
- smoke and fumes billows -- the two boys CRY.
DR. BLACKBURN
Mr. Brown!
DR. KACZYNSKI
Mr. Lee!
DR. BLACKBURN
Are you there!
DR. KACZYNSKI
Are you alright!
INT. CLEVELAND GENERAL HOSPITAL - MEETING ROOM - DAY
Paul Lee, Evelyn Lee, Dr. Blackburn, Dr. Kaczynski, DR.
BERKOWITZ, DR. KEYES, MS. SHIPMAN, and PROFESSOR TANIYAMA sit
around a large conference table.
PAUL LEE
This is preposterous! We're in the
twenty-first century and this is no
backwater country.
EVELYN LEE
How did I not notice it! For
goodness' sake, I'm his biological
mother.
DR. KEYES
Our sincere apologies.
PAUL LEE
How the heck, after six long
years...trying to cover this up?
This is malpractice of the highest
order. We'll sue you...negligence,
fraud, and civil rights
violations...
DR. BLACKBURN
Mr. Lee, we understand your pains.
Our legal officer, Dr. Keyes will
see to your rightful compensation.
Let me explain why it has taken us
so long. Professor Taniyama, would
you?
PROFESSOR TANIYAMA
Mr. and Mrs. Lee, my name is
Taniyama. I am the Chief Scientist
at Soteria Genome Technology. You
probably have heard of us.
EVELYN LEE
Yes, we took part in the genome DNA
sequencing drive by my son's
school.
PROFESSOR TANIYAMA
Yes, that's a collaboration between
Montana Elementary School and our
company to collect DNA samples from
parents and their children. Our
aim, as you're aware and consented
to, is to diagnose hereditary
diseases in your child's DNA. The
hope is that specific treatments
could then be administered to pre-
empt, or mitigate, your children
from any future afflictions related
to such diseases.
EVELYN LEE
And you found out our DNA didn't
match.
PROFESSOR TANIYAMA
I'm afraid it is much more
complicated than that. It is
against our company's policy, as
well as a violation of any
individual's privacy, to verify
birth parents.
However, in our sampling, our
researchers found two children
whose DNA do not match their lawful
parents but were a perfect match to
another couple within the same
sample pool. After further
investigation, we realized that it
was beyond coincidence that these
two boys were born seconds from one
another, in the same ward, and in
the same hospital; Cleveland
General Hospital. That was why we
contacted them.
DR. BERKOWITZ
As Chief Medical Officer, my job is
to investigate any lapses,
negligence, instances that do not
adhere to protocol, malpractice by
our staff, and possible
inadequacies in our hospital's
layers of checks. We are still in
the midst of our investigation.
Cleveland Medical Council has been
notified and an independent
committee has been set up to
investigate this matter. Rest
assured, Mr. and Mrs. Lee, a full
report from the committee will be
conveyed to you once it is ready.
Let me introduce you to Ms.
Angeline Tong, an Attorney and
Consultant with the Cleveland
Medical Council.
MS. ANGELINE TONG
Mr. and Mrs. Lee, I'm Angeline, the
Chief Investigator assigned to this
case, and I, or one of my
colleagues, will be present in all
your meetings as observers. Do not
hesitate to talk to us if you have
any doubts. Since this is a
sensitive issue, we have been sworn
to secrecy regarding the identities
of the affected parties. Those who
knew of this are those you see in
this room.
PAUL LEE
Madam Principal Shipman, does the
whole school know about this?
MS. SHIPMAN
No, Mr. Lee. I've been sworn to
secrecy as well.
DR. BLACKBURN
Coming back, we will have to
trouble you and your son for
another set of DNA samples to
collaborate the results from
Soteria Genome.
EVELYN LEE
And if that turns out negative,
this whole thing could be just one
big goofy mistake?
DR. BLACKBURN
(his head lowers)
Let's hope so.
INT. CLEVELAND GENERAL HOSPITAL - ANOTHER MEETING ROOM - DAY
Chris Brown, Michelle Brown, Dr. Blackburn, Dr. Kaczynski,
Dr. Berkowitz, Dr. Keyes, DR. ROSENHAIN, DR. BROWKIN, DR.
RAZBOROV, and Professor Taniyama sit around a conference
table.
Michelle Brown sobs. Chris Brown tears up and crumples the
piece of paper in front of him. He clenches his fists.
CHRIS BROWN
Six years have passed and you're
just now telling me this? I'll make
sure your heads are on the chopping
block.
DR. KEYES
Mr. Brown, we take full
responsibility and adequate
compensation will be awarded.
DR. KACZYNSKI
Compensation is indeed important
but the more important thing now is
your son's future.
MICHELLE BROWN
The other family knows about this?
DR. BLACKBURN
Yes.
MICHELLE BROWN
What did they say?
DR. BLACKBURN
Nothing yet. They are equally
traumatized...again...our sincere
apologies. If you allow me, I'll
let Dr. Keyes, our Chief Legal
Officer to delineate the possible
options. Dr. Keyes?
DR. KEYES
Our suggestions are not cast in
stone and we'll be more than happy
to incorporate your views. Since
the futures of your current lawful
and biological sons are of
paramount importance, there are two
options; if both parties are in
agreeance, you may continue raising
your current lawful child.
Alternatively, if both families are
also agreeable, you can swap
children and legalize the status of
your biological --
MICHELLE BROWN
-- DR. KEYES! These are flesh and
blood children, not ZOO ANIMALS to
be SWAPPED!
DR. KEYES
I...uh...
DR. BLACKBURN
Dr. Keyes, I'll take it from here.
My sincere apologies. There is
nothing more important than your
child's well being, either
biological or lawful. Based on the
recommendation from Cleveland
Medical Council, we are glad to
have Dr. Rosenhain, Head, and
Senior Consultant, of the
Department of Psychiatry at Lowanne
State Hospital, to assist you and
your family -- especially your
child.
CHRIS BROWN
Lowanne State Hospital?
MS. ANGELINE TONG
For impartiality, we suggested
Lowanne Hospital, not Cleveland,
for psychiatric assessment and
therapy.
DR. ROSENHAIN
Mr. and Mrs. Brown, I'm Dr.
Rosenhain and these are my
colleagues; Dr. Razborov and Dr.
Browkin. We are here to help. We
have a dedicated hotline as well as
assessment and therapy to assist
you in going through this trying
times.
DR. KEYES
Mr. and Mrs. Brown, the sooner you
make the decision, the better it is
for your son's future -- both boys,
I mean. You'll need to make a
choice between yours or theirs.
MICHELLE BROWN
How about the children? Do they
have a voice in any of this? You're
demanding from us an ultimatum as
soon as possible? Is that to our
benefit or yours?
CHRIS BROWN
And your screwup hospital's?
DR. BLACKBURN
Dr. Keyes...I think it's better you
excuse yourself. Mr. and Mrs.
Brown, forgive Dr. Keyes for his
unwise choice of words but his
concerns are entirely genuine.
However, I do agree that such
things are not to be rushed.
DR. RAZBOROV
Mr. and Mrs. Brown, I'm Dr.
Razborov, from the department of
Psychiatry for Childhood Psychology
and Mental Health. I cannot
emphasize enough the impact this
will have on the children given
their formative minds. My team and
I are able, with your permission,
to offer psychological assessment
and psychotherapy for them.
In addition, we'll follow through
with assessing their mental health
development for the next ten years.
CHRIS BROWN
I hope you're being sincere and not
just using them as lab rats to
further your scientific publication
goals.
DR. RAZBOROV
MR. BROWN, I --
DR. BLACKBURN
-- The children are of the highest
priority. However, they have yet to
reach the maturity of a full moral
agent. And although their views are
important, ultimately, the final
decision rests with the parents.
CHRIS BROWN
What if my wife and I have reached
a decision?
MICHELLE BROWN
(to Chris)
Have we?
CHRIS BROWN
Just take it we have for now. Dr.
Blackburn, what if the other family
refuses?
DR. BLACKBURN
That complicates matters. Legal
issues regarding the rightful
custodies may have to be settled in
court if both parties disagree on
the course of action. Where's Dr.
Keyes?
DR. BERKOWITZ
Dr. Blackburn, you ousted him.
DR. BLACKBURN
Yeeah...right.
MS. ANGELINE TONG
Ladies and Gentlemen, sorry to
interrupt. But do you think that
the two families should meet? In
private, of course, with none of us
in the picture.
CHRIS BROWN
Yes, it's about time to meet them.
MICHELLE BROWN
And our other son.
EXT. BEACH - DAY
Chris Brown and Michelle Brown walk along the beach. Kenney
plays and covers himself in sand.
MICHELLE BROWN
What's going to happen to Kenney?
I'm so scared. What are we to do?
CHRIS BROWN
I'll fight to the end to keep him.
But I'm not sure about the other
family.
MICHELLE BROWN
Can everything just remain what it
was before? I just want to wake up
from this awful dream.
CHRIS BROWN
That is not only for YOU, or US, to
decide. Kenney is their biological
son.
MICHELLE BROWN
But they have not spent a second
with him. What do they know about
his autism? Do you know it took us
five long years to come to accept
Kenney's condition? Even now, I'm
not sure I have fully reconciled
with myself. They have no idea of
how to care for Kenney. They will
get frustrated, angry. Do you how
many special needs children are
abused and neglected by their
parents, let alone parents who have
never been in contact with these
children before?
CHRIS BROWN
(shuffling the sand with
Kenney)
YES, to HELL with this DNA thing.
Kenney is no less my child than
before. He is even more so now.
He WAS, he IS, and he SHALL always
be our Kenney. Nothing and no one
is taking him away.
Kenney smiles as he piles up the sand.
INT. PAUL LEE'S BEDROOM - NIGHT
Paul and Evelyn lie beside Alan as he sleeps, Evelyn
caressing his forehead.
EVELYN LEE
The bed may be a bit cramped, but
at least we are by each other's
side.
PAUL LEE
Not for long.
EVELYN LEE
What you mean, not for long?
PAUL LEE
I'm not sure what I'm saying right
now. But this whole thing is
wreaking havoc in my mind. I'm
going NUTS. And we are meeting them
tomorrow.
EVELYN LEE
And our son.
PAUL LEE
He's not our son. Yes, he's
biological related but we haven't
spent any time with him. If I'm the
boy, I'm taking no stranger as my
parent. A six-year-old has a mind
of his own.
EVELYN LEE
But after all, he's our biological
child, our flesh and blood.
PAUL LEE
So? Does that make any difference?
EVELYN LEE
Yes, it does. If a stranger who
claims he is my long-lost brother
faints right before my eyes, versus
a stranger who is not, would I
react differently? You bet I would.
I'm the one, not WE, who carried
our baby for nine months. He's
inside me, a part of me; my limbs,
my soul. You men know nothing as
you've never had to carry a child
inside of you. You've absolutely no
idea what's that like.
PAUL LEE
It's late and the last thing I want
tonight is to get into an argument
with you. We are seeing the other
family tomorrow. What should we
say?
EVELYN LEE
I doubt they know either. We just
have to be ourselves.
PAUL LEE
The one good thing that comes out
of this whole fiasco is at least we
get compensated...the amount should
be in the range of millions.
EVELYN LEE
We're talking about future of two
young innocent lives. Even with the
money, even if we get to keep Alan,
when he reaches eighteen, he may
instead choose his biological
parents. He may leave us, now or
later.
PAUL LEE
Let's get some rest.
Paul gently holds Alan hand and pulls up his blanket.
INT. CLEVELAND GENERAL HOSPITAL - CAFETERIA - DAY
The cafeteria looks deserted with all the seats empty. But
the staff in their uniforms are busy arranging the tables and
cutleries.
Chris Brown, Michelle Brown and Kenney Brown, carrying his
Pokémon, walk in. Dr. Kaczynski appears.
DR. KACZYNSKI
Mr. and Mrs. Brown! Ah...you must
be Kenney. Give me a high five.
Yeah...Attaboy! You're so cute.
Gimme a hug.
CHRIS BROWN
Dr. Kaczynski, nice of you to be
here. This place looks empty.
DR. KACZYNSKI
Yes, we've set aside whole place
especially for you and the other
family.
Dr. Kaczynski points to a standing sign which READS:
"RESERVED FOR PRIVATE FUNCTION: 1-3PM"
DR. KACZYNSKI
Come in. Over there, that cozy
table, beside the window.
MICHELLE BROWN
How is this going to work with our
children here?
DR. KACZYNSKI
We've have that all figured out.
You see the corner playroom over
there? Our three senior nurses will
see to their meal and fun.
MICHELLE BROWN
But my son's autistic! Your nurses
may not able to manage him.
DR. KACZYNSKI
We're aware of that. Ms.
Whitecotton, our senior nurse,
specializes in caring for special
needs children. Her daughter,
unfortunately, displays both autism
and dyslexia spectrum disorder. I
believe Alan will be in good hands.
Let me show you to your table.
MS. WHITECOTTON
As your service, Mr. and Mrs.
Brown. Hi Kenney! Gimme a high
five...YEAH.
Chris Brown and Michelle Brown sit. Michelle arranges Kenney
Brown's attire.
A WAITRESS appears and takes their order. A moment later, Dr.
Kaczynski ushers in Paul, Evelyn and Alan into the cafeteria.
PAUL LEE
Sorry, we're late...caught in a bad
jam.
CHRIS BROWN
Not at all. We just got here.
DR. KACZYNSKI
Let me introduce you to the Brown
family: Chris, Michelle and our
adorable Kenney. And this is Lee
family: Paul, Evelyn and our little
Alan.
ALAN LEE
Why I not call adollable?
Everyone smiles.
PAUL LEE
(pointing to Alan)
My son. Call Chris and Michelle.
Alan shrugs his shoulders.
CHRIS BROWN
(holding Kenney's hand)
This is Kenney. Give Paul and
Evelyn a high five.
EVELYN LEE
He's autistic and non-verbal.
PAUL LEE
What's autistic?
EVELYN LEE
Be quiet. High five, Kenney. Well
done. Paul, do a high five with
Kenney.
PAUL LEE
Eh..yes...high five, Kenney.
DR. KACZYNSKI
If it is alright with you, our
nurses will care for your boys at
the corner playroom with food, toys
and lots of fun. The food for them
will be in accordance to your
suggested menu. Tell me if you need
anything else.
After a short pause.
DR. KACZYNSKI
If not, I'll make myself scarce.
Please enjoy your lunch. If you
need me, just inform the staff.
VOICES of "thank you" and "Dr. Kaczynski" heard.
The four parents sit, with no direct eye contact, each
flipping their lunch menu. Atmosphere is awkward.
PAUL LEE
Chris, you see the bruise on my
forehead.
CHRIS BROWN
Yes...size of a golf ball. What
happened?
PAUL LEE
It's not my wife's doing, if you're
wondering. But if it was, it
wouldn't be a simple bruise, I
promise.
Evelyn Lee gently kicks Paul Lee under the table.
PAUL LEE
When Dr. Kaczynski told me the
earth shattering news, I lost
control of my car. The bloody
airbag did not inflate and my
steering wheel bestowed upon me
this ping pong ball-sized bruise.
Paul Lee rubs his forehead. Everyone smiles.
CHRIS BROWN
The same happened to me. I was
driving my son home when Dr.
Blackburn broke the news. Later, my
car was in a wreck. The airbag
opened but it dislocated my jaw and
partially fractured my nose. I'm
now physically and emotionally
disfigured.
PAUL LEE
You think we should ask for more
compensation? I know of a good
lawyer who will sue their pants
off.
Everyone giggles. The atmosphere relaxes.
CHRIS BROWN
(taking out his iPad,
swiping and tapping the
screen)
Paul and Evelyn, this is Kenney,
from his birth till now.
MICHELLE BROWN
We really adore him. He is so cute.
But he was diagnosed with Autism
spectrum disorder and Dyslexia when
he was about three. At six years
old now he's still non-verbal.
PAUL LEE
What's Autism and Dyslexia, if I
may ask?
MICHELLE BROWN
Essentially, it's learning
disabilities and poor social
skills.
PAUL LEE
Any cure?
MICHELLE BROWN
It's lifelong. Depending on the
individual. In the most likely
scenario, Kenney may not ever talk,
marry, or have children.
CHRIS BROWN
He may not even be able to look
after himself. Michelle sacrificed
her career to care for him full-
time.
EVELYN LEE
It must have been hard on the both
of you.
MICHELLE BROWN
But we love him.
CHRIS BROWN
Let's talk about Alan.
PAUL LEE
(taking out his phone and
swipe its screen)
This is Alan.
He is an average child, mild
temper, a bit introverted, and very
absent-minded. He especially loves
flying kites.
EVELYN LEE
Overall, his physical health has
been fine, met all the
developmental milestones. But his
speech is often disjointed and he
cannot seem to clearly pronounce
many words. He doesn't have friends
in school. He is a bit below
average in his class. I'll cloud
share all his medical dockets,
photos and videos.
MICHELLE BROWN
I for Kenney as well.
The conversation slowly gravitates between the two fathers
and the two mothers.
EVELYN LEE
I've had some sleepless nights of
late. I've been so ashamed of
myself for not being able recognize
my own child. Mine was natural
birth, not caesarean.
MICHELLE BROWN
I'm equally to blame.
EVELYN LEE
But you've sacrificed so much for
my child.
MICHELLE BROWN
He's also my son.
EVELYN LEE
I've no idea how this will all end.
MICHELLE BROWN
I'm worried the boys will be
mentally scarred for life.
EVELYN LEE
We cannot hide the truth from them,
and they have every right to know,
but the final decision lies with
us.
MICHELLE BROWN
Yeah, we cannot take the truth to
our graves. I'm in a quandary now.
My husband is no help.
EVELYN LEE
Talk about my man...he's hopeless,
more of a liability than emotional
support. We should correspond
between ourselves rather than in
the formal group chat with all the
doctors and attorneys.
MICHELLE BROWN
Yeah...I was about the suggest
that.
EVELYN LEE
I'd want to know more about autism
and dyslexia, as much as possible.
MICHELLE BROWN
I'll do just that. It cannot be
rushed. I've learned the hard way.
The scene turns to the fathers.
CHRIS BROWN
What do you think?
PAUL LEE
I know I'll be suing them and
getting a decent compensation. But
the problem is with the boys; to
keep or to swap. What you think?
CHRIS BROWN
I'm not sure and I don't want to
rush into a decision. Moreover, I
have to discuss this with Michelle.
It involves six lives.
PAUL LEE
Six innocent lives, whereas the
perpetuators go scot-free.
Nevertheless, I thank you for
caring for Kenney as you have given
his conditions.
CHRIS BROWN
I could have done better had I only
known of the things I didn't
before. Kenney probably would have
been better off by now.
PAUL LEE
Don't be so hard on yourself.
Kenney may fare worse under me.
CHRIS BROWN
We need time.
PAUL LEE
Time for us and time for our boys.
Talking about time, I think it's
about time we check out the boys.
CHRIS BROWN
(standing up)
Ladies, shall we join our boys and
see what mischief they are up to?
INT. CAFETERIA PLAYGROUND - DAY
The four parents proceed to the playground. While the Lee's
interact with Kenney, the Brown's play with Alan.
Minutes later, Dr. Kaczynski enters.
DR. KACZYNSKI
Folks, I'm afraid our time is
coming to an end. If you want, we
can adjourn to the meeting room.
CHRIS BROWN
That's not necessary. Paul?
Paul nods.
CHRIS BROWN
(to Paul)
Hey, what say we all go for an
outing, one of these days, with our
boys?
PAUL LEE
Awesome, I wouldn't miss that for
the world. Alan loves kite flying.
CHRIS BROWN
Be prepared to have his kite
snatched away by my boy.
PAUL LEE
I have enough kites to go around
for a busload of children.
Everyone smiles.
INT. CHRIS BROWN'S LIVING ROOM - DAY
Chris Brown opens the door. Michelle's mother, GRANNY,
enters. Kenney rushes to take her hand.
CHRIS BROWN
Mum, it's nice of you to come.
GRANNY
My Kenney! Granny has brought you
your favorite malt candy. I got up
extra early today to have them
freshly made.
MICHELLE BROWN
Mummy, not again. It rots the
teeth. Never mind, it doesn't
really matter.
GRANNY
Michelle dear, I understand what
you're going through right now.
Remember, whatever decision you
make, I'll stand by your side.
Granny gentle taps Michelle's shoulder and points to the
kitchen.
MICHELLE BROWN
Chris, watch over Kenney for now.
Mum and I are going to the kitchen
to get some tea.
CHRIS BROWN
As you wish, my dear.
INT. CHRIS BROWN'S KITCHEN - DAY
Michelle Brown pours out tea into a cup. Granny sits down.
MICHELLE BROWN
Mum! What should I do?
GRANNY
I've got no answer to that. I'd be
equally as perplexed if I were you.
Granny sips her tea.
GRANNY
You'll be glad to know your
biological son is normal.
But it is unfortunate that Kenney,
not your birth child, has special
needs. It complicates everything. I
doubt you'll want a second child.
Kenney may be all that you've got
left.
MICHELLE BROWN
Mum, I yearn for a normal child.
I'm tired out by Kenney. My heart
aches.
GRANNY
You need to consider more than just
that. I'll tell you something I've
never told anyone before. I've made
many mistakes in life but there was
one I can never forgive myself for.
MICHELLE BROWN
What's that?
GRANNY
For putting you under the care of
your grandparents when you were
born...eight long years. I know
your feelings towards me will never
be those that you hold for your
grandparents. And no matter what I
do, I never seem to be able to make
up to you.
MICHELLE BROWN
You were working hard for our
livelihood.
GRANNY
Not entirely true. I wanted more in
life; money, career. But I lost
those years with you. If only I
could rewind back to those moments.
If I only knew then --
MICHELLE BROWN
-- Mum, don't be so hard on
yourself. I love you.
GRANNY
I love you too. I cannot imagine
the toll it took on you when I took
you away from your grandparents
after eight long years. Biological
or not, by then you had already
become estranged from me.
I remember how you cried your eyes
out when grandma passed away, and
then grandpa months later.
MICHELLE BROWN
(sobbing)
I know.
GRANNY
Alan's now six years old. Your
decision now may rob him of
something no amount of restitution
can make right. You need to think
not for yourself but for him.
Michelle nods.
GRANNY
That other family has no experience
with a special needs child. Their
learning curve will be steep. They
may not take it well. And all the
more so for Kenney, whose special
world may get darker still. Don't
make the same mistake I did and
live the rest of my life in regret.
These helpless children have no
control over their fates in the
big, relentless scheme of things.
MICHELLE BROWN
That guy Paul hasn't a slightest
clue on what autism is, let alone
caring for someone who has it. I
dread leaving Kenney with him even
for a second.
GRANNY
We'll leave that for now. Come, I
want to see my grandson.
Granny stands up from her chair, takes her cup of tea, and
walks into the living room.
INT. CHRIS BROWN'S LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
GRANNY
Kenney! Granny will be your
playmate for the afternoon. Granny
will give you piggyback rides.
Grandpa loved giving you piggyback
rides when he was around.
Granny taps on Chris' shoulder.
GRANNY
Go ahead the both of you. Don't
worry about Kenney. That rascal
missed me...or should I say
Granny's homemade malt candy? You
two need some quiet time to talk
things over.
EXT. PARK BENCH - NIGHT
Chris Brown and Michelle Brown sit on a bench next to a pond.
MICHELLE BROWN
I've made my decision. I'm keeping
Kenney.
CHRIS BROWN
Kenney is not our biological child,
Alan is. What's more, he's normal.
MICHELLE BROWN
According to your logic, if Alan
was forever bedridden, you'd settle
for Kenney instead. We are not
picking apples.
CHRIS BROWN
Alan is not bedridden. We need a
normal child. Let's face it. Kenney
is handicapped, mentally at least.
He has robbed us of being normal
parents and enjoying what normal
parents enjoy.
MICHELLE BROWN
It's not for you to choose. God has
planned that for us.
CHRIS BROWN
Yeah, He's a shitty God!
MICHELLE BROWN
I'm hearing none of this. Even if
you have your way, the Lee's will
be vehemently against it.
CHRIS BROWN
Then we should fight over it in
court. I've checked with a lawyer
friend of mine and the odds are
good.
Biological factors overwrite
everything. And what's more...our
exemplary record in caring for
Kenney will surely touch the most
hard-hearted of judges.
MICHELLE BROWN
Let's go back. I'm tired.
CHRIS BROWN
So, what's your decision?
Michelle looks at Chris and silently walks away.
INT. EVELYN LEE'S OFFICE - DAY
Evelyn Lee swipes at her phone's screen. The connected
Bluetooth speaker phone RINGS.
EVELYN LEE
Is this Lowanna State Hospital?
VOICE (V.O.)
Yes it is.
EVELYN LEE
I'd like to speak to Dr. Rosenhain.
My name is Evelyn, Evelyn Lee.
VOICE (V.O.)
Mrs. Lee...yes, you are on a
special hotline. We are instructed
to connect you right away. I'm
afraid Dr. Rosenhain is away but I
can put you through Dr. Browkin.
EVELYN LEE
Thanks.
The phone CLICKS and RINGS on the other side.
INT. DR. BROWKIN'S OFFICE - DAY [CONTINUOUS]
The phone on Dr. Browkin's desk RINGS. She drops the file
she's reading and answers.
DR. BROWKIN
Dr. Browkin.
EVELYN LEE (V.O.)
Hello, Dr. Browkin. This is Evelyn
Lee.
DR. BROWKIN
Yes, hello, Evelyn! I hope you
don't mind me calling you that?
INTERCUT: EVELYN LEE/DR. BROWKIN
EVELYN LEE
No, not at all Dr. Browkin. Thanks
for taking my call.
DR. BROWKIN
Let's do away with the formalities.
My name's Mary...no doctor, no
Browkin, just your typical Mary.
EVELYN LEE
Thank you Mary. Doctor...I mean
Mary. I'm badly in need of someone
in whom I can confide. I felt lost.
I cry whenever my eyes set on Alan.
But I'm not the same anymore
knowing that Kenney is my birth
child. He's mine. I want to care
for him. I want them both. Please
help me.
DR. BROWKIN
I'm a mother myself. Six years with
a child, biological or not, makes
you his parent and him your child.
Nothing is going to change that.
EVELYN LEE
What about DNA?
DR. BROWKIN
Evelyn, let me share something with
you: Five years ago, I found out
that my lawful mother, who single-
handedly raised me, was not my
biological parent, after she had a
DNA extraction during one of her
routine cancer treatments. When I
found this out, guess what? I
couldn't care less. My mother is my
mother because of what she did for
me; loving me and caring for me.
I'm not going to let some bars and
stripes patterns dictate to me who
my mother is. I never told my mum
about this. Instead, I simply
tossed the DNA results into the
bin.
EVELYN LEE
You ever want to look for your
birth parents?
DR. BROWKIN
I won't deny that there was an urge
in the beginning. But now, I don't
give a damn.
EVELYN LEE
But I'm worried that they will take
Alan from me.
DR. BROWKIN
If you love your child, you need to
do what is good for him. Maybe the
Browns share your feelings.
EVELYN LEE
What about Kenney? By no fault of
their own, Kenney has brought them
so much challenges. Why should
Michelle and Chris have to bear the
brunt of the seed I sowed? It's so
unfair to them. Where are those
joys and fulfillments that come
with the normal parenthood of a
normal child? They have none of
those. It feels like I robbed them
of what was never mine and made
them pick up what I discarded.
DR. BROWKIN
I know you're a person who does not
shirk your responsibilities.
However, it is a formidable task to
care for a special needs child. The
Browns have done a lot and the mum
has sacrifice much for him. I'm not
suggesting that you cannot do a
better job in caring for Kenney. No
one can pick up within a couple of
months what another has accumulated
over a period of years. You may
make the situation worse,
regardless of your good intentions.
EVELYN LEE
What am I to do? I'm so distraught.
I need to get it off my chest.
DR. BROWKIN
Do you believe in God? Are you
religious at all?
If so, cast your doubts and
anxieties on this higher being.
EVELYN LEE
My faith isn't that strong.
DR. BROWKIN
Your faith should not be in
yourself but in a higher being. Let
this higher being guide you in what
is right for you and for those
affected by your decision. For all
you know, that higher being is your
inner voice. Listen to it.
A pause.
DR. BROWKIN
Evelyn, mind if I come over and
join you for a cup of tea?
EVELYN LEE
Gladly.
DR. BROWKIN
Just so you know, I'm one
psychiatrist who talks more than I
should listen.
EVELYN LEE
And I'm a patient who listens more
than I should talk.
DR. BROWKIN
It seems that we are going to make
an ideal tea pals.
Both ladies giggle.
INT. ALAN LEE'S BEDROOM - NIGHT
Evelyn Brown tucks Alan into bed and kisses his forehead.
EVELYN LEE
Goodnight. Sleep tight.
ALAN LEE
Mummy, I wanna sleep wee you.
EVELYN LEE
Not tonight, my dear. Mummy
promises you tomorrow night.
ALAN LEE
You prom-miss!
EVELYN LEE
I promise. Let's do a pinky swear.
ALAN LEE
Pinky...
Evelyn crosses her little finger with Alan's and turns off
the lights.
INT. PAUL LEE'S LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
Evelyn Lee walks in. Paul Lee takes a sip from a can of beer.
PAUL LEE
He's asleep?
EVELYN LEE
Not yet but soon.
PAUL LEE
I've just finished packing what we
need. Tomorrow, we're off to the
beach with the Browns.
(Paul holds up his mobile
phone)
What's this you're sending me?
EVELYN LEE
I've signed up for an online course
on dealing with autistic children.
PAUL LEE
Are you kidding me? Are we swapping
for Kenney?
EVELYN LEE
We've got to do what's right.
PAUL LEE
You've absolutely no idea of the
consequences. Our whole world will
turn topsy turvy. You may have to
give up your career. I'll be the
main breadwinner but what if
suddenly I'm down and out?
EVELYN LEE
Then, I'll take it from there.
PAUL LEE
Let me hammer some common sense
into your head. I don't even know
autism from dyslexia, how am I to
care for one? And you don't fare
much better. All our hopes and
aspirations will be forever buried
with Kenney. He's a goner. Our
family will never be normal again.
This is not what I signed up for
and I'll not settle for anything
less.
EVELYN LEE
But he's our flesh and blood. Paul
and Michelle did not sign up for
this either.
PAUL LEE
Look, every man...every
parent...for himself. I don't have
the slightest doubt that the Browns
will spare no effort in securing
Alan's custody.
EVELYN LEE
They are them. We are us. Forget
it. I'm tired.
EXT. BEACH - MORNING
The morning radiates a spic-and-span navy blue sky.
Paul Lee shows Alan how to fly a kite. Chris Brown holds
Kenney's hand as he lets loose the kite into the air.
ALAN LEE
Daddy...kite falling. I wan hi hi.
Alan fumbles with the kite reel winder.
CHRIS BROWN
Pull back, tilt to the side, slowly
roll, and then release and push up
the safety bolt with your right
thumb to lock it. That thing will
eventually touch Heaven.
PAUL LEE
Wow...you're a virtuoso with this.
CHRIS BROWN
Brought Kenney kite-flying here
almost every other week. I heard
from someone that the beach is good
for him; the sun, sand, and
water...mother nature's therapy.
But Kenney is slow in picking up
kite-flying. Alan is good. How
about you? You come often?
PAUL LEE
Eh...I tried. But my work always
caught up with me.
Paul Lee releases his hands, leaving Alan with the reel
winder.
PAUL LEE
You're doing great. Don't let go.
Hold on to it with your life.
ALAN LEE
It's falling...falling...NOOO!
CHRIS BROWN
Never mind. Take mine, it's still
flying.
Chris Brown passes his reel winder to Alan.
CHRIS BROWN
Good hold...keep pulling Alan. It's
reaching for the clouds.
Suddenly, Alan takes and holds Kenney's hand, flying the
kite.
PAUL LEE
Do you see what I'm seeing? The
boys are flying the kite together.
MICHELLE, QUICK, COME and see this.
The parents, in concert, whip out their mobiles at the boys.
MICHELLE BROWN
Yeah! This is the moment of the
century. Chris did you...
PAUL LEE
Shucks! My phone is not responding
to my tap...couldn't have come at a
worse time.
EVELYN LEE
Got it, don't worry. I've captured
that, the moment of a lifetime,
forever etched in the clouds. I'll
share with you now.
The parents swipe and tap their mobile screens.
LATER:
Michelle Brown and Evelyn Lee spread out the food and drinks
on the picnic mat over the sand.
MICHELLE BROWN
I've just enabled the sharing of
videos on how and what we did in
our early intervention lessons for
Kenney. It helped a bit. I do see
some improvement in him.
EVELYN LEE
Do you seek help from specialists?
MICHELLE BROWN
We did. At the end of the day, it
still boils down to the parents
seeing it through. Specialists or
institutions can only do so much.
There is no...one-size-fits-all
technique. We discard whenever it's
not showing results and improvise
when the techniques show promise.
EVELYN LEE
So, there's no cure?
MICHELLE BROWN
It's a lifelong condition. Beware
of charlatans claiming otherwise.
We've learned the hard way and lost
most of our lifesavings to prove
it.
EVELYN LEE
What have you come to conclude so
far? I want to know more and learn.
MICHELLE BROWN
Parental love and early
intervention techniques go hand-in-
hand. The right technique without
the love will not produce results.
And love without the right
technique is akin to driving your
car blindfolded. Let's change the
subject. How's Alan coming along in
school?
EVELYN LEE
He's falling behind his peers. Paul
continues to push him. I feel
guilty that we keep piling to much
on him and not spending enough
quality time with him. We break
promise after promise with him. The
last time we went kite-flying was
more than a year ago and every time
he asked to go again, we hoodwinked
him, telling him to wait until the
coming weekend. Then the next
coming weekend, and the next.
MICHELLE BROWN
What's your take on this?
EVELYN LEE
It's a catch-22. If we go easy on
him, we may curtail his potential;
he may come back later in life
blaming us. But if we insist on our
value-system, it may backfire. I've
no idea where to draw the line.
MICHELLE BROWN
Everybody's family has problems.
EVELYN LEE
Yours are a hundred-fold to mine.
The boys eye the lunch boxes and begin wolfing down whatever
their mothers throw at them.
LATER:
Paul Lee and Chris Brown stroll along the beach.
PAUL LEE
How much do you think they will
compensate us?
CHRIS BROWN
My guess is in the millions.
PAUL LEE
Between us?
CHRIS BROWN
Each.
PAUL LEE
How'd you spend it?
CHRIS BROWN
Kenney's future. Or Alan's,
depending on how the whole thing
turns out.
PAUL LEE
Now that you mention it, I won't
deny that Evelyn and I are at
loggerheads over this.
CHRIS BROWN
I'm no better. Michelle, if she is
merciful, divorces me. If not, have
my throat slit.
Chris Brown makes a cut-throat sign across his neck.
PAUL LEE
I've a proposal. Care to listen?
CHRIS BROWN
Yeah. Don't hold back.
PAUL LEE
What if I can relieve your burden?
My portion of the pay-out goes to
you. Basically, you take the money,
I take the boys. Both, I mean.
CHRIS BROWN
You son of a bitch...say that
again...
PAUL LEE
If my portion ain't enough for you,
name a price, we can always
negotiate --
-- POW!
Chris PUNCHES Paul in the face. Paul tumbles. The sand
catches him.
CHRIS BROWN
They are NOT for sale.
PAUL LEE
You SCUMBAG! I close my offer. No
more.
Paul Lee pulls himself up and TACKLES Chris Brown to the
ground. Both men grab each other shirts and roll over
GRAPPLING in the sand.
LATER:
The two men approach the picnic mat with their heads down,
hair disheveled, faces bruised and cut, and their clothes
tattered and soiled.
EVELYN LEE
You IDIOTS. How dare you!
MICHELLE BROWN
Get away from us. Don't you dare
stain my picnic mat!
EVELYN LEE
Kill each other for all I care!
Give us the keys. We're driving the
boys back.
MICHELLE BROWN
Morons!
EVELYN LEE
Nincompoop!
MICHELLE BROWN
Come along, boys. A sea monster has
swallowed up your fathers. Daddies
ain't coming back anymore.
After surrendering the keys, the wives and children leave.
The two men plop down in the sand.
PAUL LEE
I'm really sorry. I shoved my dumb
ass in my mouth just now. I
shouldn't have said that.
CHRIS BROWN
If you hadn't shoved your dumb ass
in your mouth, I'd have done the
same with my own dumb ass.
PAUL LEE
You're kidding? You really meant to
propose that to me too?
CHRIS BROWN
Yes, but your dumb ass got to your
mouth first.
Both men smile and relax.
PAUL LEE
Forgive my wife's words. To be
fair, she's being very "kind"
today. You've not seen her at her
most venomous self; you'd get burnt
and dissolved just by her words
alone.
CHRIS BROWN
Mine's no better. But I've managed
to put up with her all these years.
Women change, you know. She wasn't
like that when I dated her.
PAUL LEE
Mine shedded her skin the day we
tied the knot.
CHRIS BROWN
Women.
PAUL LEE
Women.
CHRIS BROWN
Coming back. You think your boy can
spend one weekend at my place and
mine at yours?
PAUL LEE
I'm thinking about that too. And
since you mentioned it, I whole-
hearted agree. But we need to get
the hell out of here. Your phone
working?
CHRIS BROWN
Mine's flat.
Both men get up, hands over each other shoulders, and limp
their way back towards the cars.
INT. PARKING AREA - DAY
One week later.
Evelyn Lee and Alan get out the car. Paul Lee swings out a
handheld luggage.
EVELYN LEE
Remember to call Chris and
Michelle. Be polite and don't be
naughty.
ALAN LEE
Why I'm staying there?
EVELYN LEE
It's only for this weekend. It will
be so FUN. There lots of toys in
their house and they are taking you
out to a couple of fun places.
ALAN LEE
Fly kites?
PAUL LEE
You bet! Chris flies higher and
bigger kites than Papa.
ALAN LEE
Why Papa, Mama not comin? Me
scared.
EVELYN LEE
Don't be scared. Chris and Michelle
are so friendly. Remember when we
flew kites with them and their boy
Kenney? And Kenney will be staying
in our place for this weekend.
ALAN LEE
Why? Me naughty? You dun wan me no
more?
EVELYN LEE
Don't be silly! Only for one
weekend, you'll be back home on
Sunday night. Don't be naughty when
you're in Chris' house. You must
behave yourself.
PAUL LEE
They're here.
Chris Brown pulls out two giant suitcases. Michelle Brown
carries Kenney in her arms. Kenney's Pokémon is dangling from
his hand.
CHRIS BROWN
Sorry that we're late. Michelle was
worried that we might forget
something, so we went over and over
it until we ended up with these two
ginormous things.
PAUL LEE
Alan, say hi to Chris, Michelle,
and Kenney.
ALAN LEE
Hi..hi...hi
MICHELLE BROWN
Hi Alan, ready to come to our
house? Lots of toys are waiting for
you.
Alan turns his gaze to Michelle Brown and nods.
EVELYN LEE
Hello, Kenney...let's do a high
five.
Kenney raise his palm to touch Evelyn's. Michelle pulls
Evelyn to one side.
MICHELLE BROWN
Kenney will be a challenge to
manage. I've sent you a to-do list
to pacify him if he throws one of
his tantrums. Remember: Don't leave
the house without his Pokémon. If
he's getting out hand, call me and
I'll fetch him right back.
EVELYN LEE
Don't say that. He's also my son.
Paul and I will try our best. He
will be in good hands. Trust my
maternal instinct. I dare say I'm
pretty good with kids. Thanks for
the to-do lists, I'm more mentally
prepared now. I even made Paul
recite your instructions back to me
verbatim last night.
Both mothers giggle.
Both fathers carry the luggage to each other car.
PAUL LEE
Use your kiting skill to win him
over.
CHRIS BROWN
You ain't afraid?
PAUL LEE
Nowadays, I resign myself to
almighty God. Everything is for the
best in the best of all possible
worlds, I pray.
CHRIS BROWN
You'll have a much more challenging
weekend than me, with Kenney's
condition.
PAUL LEE
If there's anything I cannot
manage, I'll call you.
CHRIS BROWN
It might be too late.
PAUL LEE
Come on! Have some confidence in
me.
Both men laugh.
Michelle Brown and Evelyn Lee pass each other their children.
The mothers lift up the hand of their biological child to
wave and bid one another farewell. With their back turned,
they go to their respective car.
As the cars drive off in the opposite direction, the children
turn their head, gazing at the other child from the rear car
window.
EXT. LARGE OPEN FIELD - DAY
CHILDREN and ADULTS fly various kites. Chris Brown and Alan
each fly a kite.
ALAN LEE
It's falling...help me...
CHRIS BROWN
Don't panic. Here, I'll show you
how to get it soaring through the
clouds.
ALAN LEE
Wow..so hi..so hi...will it touch
Sun?
CHRIS BROWN
(smiling)
Yeah, it will and it will carry us
up there.
MICHELLE BROWN
Okay, boys! Food's ready. Alan,
your favorite fries with pickled
onions is getting cold if you don't
hurry.
ALAN LEE
I want kite go hi-hi touch Sun.
CHRIS BROWN
Alan, roll back the string. Listen
to your mum...eh...I mean,
Michelle. What am I saying?
Chris Brown helps Alan to roll back the string, collects back
the kites and hurry to the picnic mat.
ALAN LEE
Me hungry.
CHRIS BROWN
Daddy is too...I mean, I'm hungry
too. I'm not myself today.
MICHELLE BROWN
Slowly, chew don't swallow.
ALAN LEE
(nodding)
I chew-chew.
CHRIS BROWN
I'm not sure I should say this.
This is a rare moment which I felt
so much fulfillment as a father. He
responded to me. He picks up kite
flying within minutes while Kenney
can't even hold it for himself more
than ten seconds despite the months
I've spent working with him.
MICHELLE BROWN
I've felt the same way. If only he
is ours.
I had several slips of the tongue
with him today and called myself
mummy and you daddy.
CHRIS BROWN
But we ARE his daddy and mummy.
Alan, tomorrow we're going to
Universal Studios.
ALAN LEE
What tat?
CHRIS BROWN
Amusement park...with roller
coasters, canopy flying, space
rides. Let me show you.
Chris Brown swipes and taps his handphone screen in front of
Alan.
ALAN LEE
Wow...fly-fly...
CHRIS BROWN
You've been there?
ALAN LEE
Nooo...papa mama wok.
CHRIS BROWN
Okay. We go tomorrow.
ALAN LEE
Than...cute.
INT. JUMPTOPIA - DAY
Kenney jumps on a huge trampoline, leaping high, holding his
Pokemon by the tail.
PAUL LEE
Kenney, let's jump together.
Weeeeee...
Paul Lee and Kenney go from one playground to another. Evelyn
Lee joins them as well.
EVELYN LEE
Lunch time! Let's try the newly-
opened Pokémon-themed restaurant.
Kenney will be thrilled. Many
Pokémon waiting for you. Kenney!
Looking forward to that?
Kenney comes down from the trapezium and grabs Evelyn's hand.
INT. POKÉMON-THEMED RESTAURANT - DAY
EVELYN LEE
Sit properly, Kenney. Don't jump on
the chair. It's not nice.
PAUL LEE
This is quite challenging. He takes
at least an hour to finish his
meal.
EVELYN LEE
That's what Michelle said. Now you
know what the Browns have gone
through. He is non-verbal, no way
to express himself, has only a
rudimentary awareness of things we
take for granted in Alan.
PAUL LEE
Kenney, what you think about going
to another Trampoline park
tomorrow. It will be much BIGGER
than today's.
Kenney doesn't respond, his attention focused on all the
Pokémons.
The food arrives. The family settles down for a meal.
PAUL LEE
It is not that difficult to manage
Kenney. He's fine with us. No
tantrum. Just that he's not
responsive and he takes ages to eat
his meals.
EVELYN LEE
But have you considered his future?
He needs to learn social skills, to
count, to read, to spell. Who's
going to do that? Institutions? Do
we have the money that it'll take
to help him? But even with all the
money in the world, it cannot buy
the love and dedication of his
parents.
PAUL LEE
I should have known better. Anyway,
Bon Appétit, everyone. Bon Appétit,
Kenney!
INT. CHRIS BROWN'S BEDROOM - NIGHT
Chris is lying on the bed, reading from a storybook with Alan
in the middle and Michelle stroking his forehead.
MICHELLE BROWN
(softly)
I think he's fast asleep.
CHRIS BROWN
He's tired and he's enjoying every
minute of it, through and through.
We hit it off pretty well.
MICHELLE BROWN
Let's get some sleep. Tomorrow will
be another long day.
CHRIS BROWN
Spent with our son, no day is ever
too long.
EXT. UNIVERSAL STUDIO - DAY
Chris Brown and Michelle Brown take Alan for a Transformers
thrill ride. Alan SCREAMS and covers his eyes throughout the
journey.
After the ride finishes, they get off of their seats.
CHRIS BROWN
Alan, did that scare the wits out
of you? Let's try the Spidey-3D!
Are you ready for that, Alan?
Alan is silent.
CHRIS BROWN
I'll take your silent for a YESSSS!
Let's swing like Spidey...swoosh...
Chris Brown cups his hands and holds them high, mimicking
Spider-man swinging.
CHRIS BROWN
This is your friendly neighborhood
Spider-man.
Alan remains silent.
MICHELLE BROWN
Chris, don't push it. Maybe Alan is
tired.
CHRIS BROWN
Come on. The morning is still
young.
As the Browns walk to the next venue, Alan bursts in tears.
ALAN LEE
Mammy...want mammy.
Alan shrugs off Michelle Brown's hand.
MICHELLE BROWN
Told you not to push it.
CHRIS BROWN
What did I do?
MICHELLE BROWN
Quick, humor him...do
anything...make a stupid face at
him.
CHRIS BROWN
What's a stupid face? How do I make
one?
MICHELLE BROWN
Damn...just be yourself. You're
stupid enough.
CHRIS BROWN
What you say, woman!
ALAN LEE
HOM...I want HOME...
Alan drops to the ground, CRYING and refusing to move.
MICHELLE BROWN
It's not looking good. I'm getting
some ice-cream and candy floss.
Don't let him out of your sight.
CHRIS BROWN
Be quick, woman.
CHRIS BROWN
(consoling)
How about we go kite-flying? High,
high, up to the sky, through the
clouds and touching the Sun.
Alan Lee SCREAMS.
ALAN LEE
MAMA!
BYSTANDERS look at them.
CHRIS BROWN
(embarrassed)
Shucks! What should I do?
Chris Brown whips out his mobile and plays "Baby Shark"
cartoon music video.
ALAN LEE
Papa don wan me. Mama don love me.
I wan HOME.
Alan Lee bangs his fist on the concrete floor.
CHRIS BROWN
This is really BAD.
Chris Brown attempts to pull Alan off the ground but to no
avail.
CHRIS BROWN
Alan, stay here. I'll get a Kite
from my car and we go kite-flying,
okay?
EXT. TRAMPOLINE WONDERLAND - DAY
Paul Lee, Evelyn Lee and Kenney jump on the biggest canopy.
EVELYN LEE
I'm totally exhausted. I think I
jump more times in this one hour
than in my entire life.
PAUL LEE
Kenney, let's take a rest.
Paul takes Kenney's hand and they climb down the trampoline.
EVELYN LEE
I'm getting some snacks. With those
strenuous jumps, Kenney needs
replenishment.
PAUL LEE
I do too, age is catching up with
me. I can't keep up with our son.
EVELYN LEE
Not our son. Not yet...or maybe
not.
PAUL LEE
I don't care. He is OUR SON for
this weekend and no one is changing
that.
Evelyn Lee walks across to the stalls. She picks up some
snacks and beverages and checks out at the counter.
As she walks back to the giant trampoline, she sees Paul Lee
and a BURLY MALE staring daggers at each other. Evelyn rushes
over to Kenney who is CRYING.
She squats down next to him.
EVELYN LEE
What happened?
PAUL LEE
This idiot shoved Kenney to the
floor and kicked him.
BURLY MALE
Your son took my son's toy.
EVELYN LEE
He's only a kid.
PAUL LEE
No way a big guy like you should be
treating a child this way.
BURLY MALE
I'm protecting what's mine. Your
dim-wit son kept touching us and
grabbing our toys.
PAUL LEE
He's NOT a dim-wit. He is a special
needs child. He is MY SON.
BURLY MALE
Don't give excuses. Supervise your
son. Don't shirk your responsible.
What kinda parents are you? Like
father, like son. You must be
equally as cuckoo like --
A fist flies through the air. BAM! The Burly Male DROPS to
the floor.
EXT. UNIVERSAL STUDIO - DAY
Chris Brown hurries to his car parked nearby.
He takes out his kite from the car. He looks back -- Alan is
gone.
CHRIS BROWN
DAMNIT! I don't believe it. He was
there a second ago.
Chris Brown rushes back to the place where Alan had been.
Michelle, ice creams in-hand, returns and looks around.
MICHELLE BROWN
Where's Alan?
CHRIS BROWN
I lost him. I don't know. I was
getting the kite from the car and
he disappeared right out from under
my nose.
Ice creams fall to the ground...SMACK! Michelle SLAPS Chris.
MICHELLE BROWN
You IDIOT, you MORON! You've lost
our child!
CHRIS BROWN
Stupid me. I can't believe it! He
disappeared right before my eyes.
MICHELLE BROWN
Nut-head, you better comb this
whole place, every inch! I'm
calling security. I need to check
their CCTV.
INT. POLICE STATION INTERROGATION ROOM - DAY
Paul Lee, Evelyn Lee, Kenney, and two POLICE OFFICERS are in
an enclosed room.
PAUL LEE
Look officers. For the hundredth
time, yes, I hit him. And I hope I
broke his bloody jaw!
OFFICER ONE
Mr. Lee! Watch your mouth. I'll
pretend that I did not hear that.
PAUL LEE
He shoved and kicked my son!
OFFICER ONE
Your son?
PAUL LEE
My buddy's son. We swapped our
children for the weekend.
OFFICER TWO
This some modern parenthood thing?
PAUL LEE
It's complicated. Look, long story
short --
-- Kenney DROPS TO THE FLOOR, acting as if he is having a
convulsion and CRYING his eyes out.
OFFICER TWO
Is your son...I mean, your friend's
son, alright? Does he need a
doctor?
EVELYN LEE
He's a special needs child. This
room is too claustrophobic. We need
out.
OFFICER ONE
I'm afraid we're in the midst of an
interrogation. Give us at least
another hour.
EVELYN LEE
Where is his Pokémon? I need his
Pokémon? Paul! For Christ's sake,
WHERE IS HIS POKÉMON?
PAUL LEE
I...in the car...no...no...I
remember I took it out. My mind is
in a blank now.
Kenney begins HITTING HIS HEAD with his bare fists and
scratching his face red.
EVELYN LEE
Please, Kenney. You're hurting
yourself...don't do that.
PAUL LEE
Can my wife and kid leave now? My
son is hurting himself. It's been a
traumatic day for him; being pushed
and kicked, and now locked up in
this hellish place!
OFFICER ONE
I'm afraid that is not possible.
Operational procedures, Mr. Lee.
PAUL LEE
To hell with your procedures!
OFFICER ONE
Watch your mouth...don't say I
didn't warn you. What you say
could, and will be, used against
you in court.
EVELYN LEE
I'm calling Michelle now. I'm at my
wit's end!
PAUL LEE
God have mercy on us!
CUT TO:
EXT. UNIVERSAL STUDIOS - DAY [CONTINUOUS]
Michelle stands inside the security office on her phone.
MICHELLE BROWN
Kenney!...kicked and pushed to the
ground, now locked up in police
station now...scratching his face
and punching his head!
CUT TO:
INT. POLICE STATION INTERROGATION ROOM - DAY [SIMULTANEOUS]
Evelyn on the phone, her mouth agape.
EVELYN LEE
What?! Alan's disappeared? What you
mean disappeared? Can't find him?
Have you checked the CCTV?
She looks at Paul, struggling to console Kenney on the floor.
INT. POLICE STATION INTERROGATION ROOM - DAY [LATER]
Paul Lee, Evelyn Lee, Kenney and Officer One are in a
enclosed room.
OFFICER TWO, (female), enters.
OFFICER TWO
Mrs. Lee, I thought I saw a Pokémon
toy lying somewhere around the
trampoline. It's too far to drive
back just to check. I went out to
the nearest mall to get another
one. Will this do?
Officer Two takes out a furry toy.
EVELYN LEE
Yes, yes...this will work.
PAUL LEE
Thanks God!
Kenney sees it and grabs it from Officer Two. He stops
crying.
Evelyn Lee wipes off his tears and tends to his bruises and
scratches on his forehead and face.
EVELYN LEE
Thank you, Officer.
OFFICER TWO
Don't mention it. I'm a mother
myself. I'll make sure that
bastard's behind bars.
OFFICER ONE
OFFICER SURIBAYA! I really pray
that the room's CCTV's
malfunctioning today.
EXT. UNIVERSAL STUDIO - DAY
As Chris Brown searches frantically for Alan, a YOUNG ADULT
MAN rushes up to him.
YOUNG ADULT MAN
Sir, are you looking for a child,
five-six years old?
Chris Brown grabs the Young Adult Man's shoulders.
CHRIS BROWN
Yes, in a red and blue Spidey-
shirt. You've seen him?
YOUNG ADULT MAN
That's him alright. He's with my
girlfriend now. We heard a child
crying from the drain, apparently,
he tripped and fell inside. We
managed to pull the him out. He's
got some cuts and bruises, but
he'll be fine. He just kept crying
for his parents, saying they
abandoned him. You're his father?
CHRIS BROWN
Eh...it's long story.
LATER:
INTERCUT: CHRIS/EVELYN/MICHELLE
Chris Brown is on his phone and holding Alan.
CHRIS BROWN (ON PHONE)
Michelle, I've found him!
MICHELLE BROWN (ON PHONE)
Thank God!
(Clicks over to Evelyn)
Evelyn, Alan's with Chris, safe and
sound.
EVELYN LEE (ON PHONE)
(to Michelle)
Michelle, we're now out of that God-
forsaken room. Kenney is in my
arms, fast asleep.
EXT. PARKING AREA - DAY
Paul Lee and Chris Brown are moving the luggage between their
cars. The children have returned to their respective parents.
PAUL LEE
Kenney came to us in good condition
and I really screwed up to return
him to you bruised and scratched.
I'm sorry.
CHRIS BROWN
I'm not much better than you. I
returned your Alan to you with cuts
and bruises as well.
EVELYN LEE
It's been a long and traumatic day
all around.
MICHELLE BROWN
I couldn't have agree more. But
luckily, it all ended well.
CHRIS BROWN
Paul, thanks for standing up to
that bully for my son.
PAUL LEE
Look, he's also my son. It is OUR
son that I stood up for. I know
you'd have done the same in my
shoes. And thanks to you, my son
was found.
CHRIS BROWN
Our son, you mean.
Everyone smiles.
EVELYN LEE
Are you game for another weekend
children exchange?
MICHELLE BROWN
Sure! It can't get much more worse
than today.
PAUL LEE
How about a change? We take both
boys for a weekend, leaving some
intimate time for yourselves.
And the following weekend, it will
be our turn to enjoy time away from
these rascals.
CHRIS BROWN
Yes, give ourselves some personal
time.
EVELYN LEE
The boys need their time, too.
MICHELLE BROWN
We don't rush.
Everyone smiles.
EXT. SCHOOL - PICKUP AREA - DAY
SUPER: "One Year Later"
Kids run amok while others sit on a bench.
Under the watchful eyes of Ms. Alcala, each child leaves with
an adult. One by one, they wave goodbye.
Chris Brown walks towards the children.
Ms. Alcala taps Kenney on his shoulder and gentle grabs his
hand.
MS. ALCALA
Run along, Kenney! Your daddy's
here!
Another CHILD breaks rank from the group and rushes towards
Chris Brown.
ALAN LEE
(hugging Chris)
Daddy...daddy!
CHRIS BROWN
(stretching his other hand to reach
for Kenney)
Come Kenney, come to daddy.
Ms. Alcala, bewildered, lets go of Kenney hand. Kenney Brown
rushes towards Chris Brown.
MS. ALCALA
Mr. Brown, which is...eh..your
son...I thought...
Ms. Alcala looks at Kenney, then at Alan, and back to Kenney.
CHRIS BROWN
(hugging both children)
They are BOTH my sons.
PAUL LEE (O.S.)
And we are BOTH their parents.
Paul Lee appears from behind.
PAUL LEE
(winks at Ms. Alcala)
You should know your flock better.
Paul and Chris laugh.
ALAN LEE
(holding Kenney's hand)
We are BRO-thersss.
CHRIS BROWN
Paul, you're late.
PAUL LEE
As usual.
CHRIS BROWN
Boys, it's time to go home.
PAUL LEE
Which home?
CHRIS BROWN
Does that matter?
Paul Lee smiles.
With their backs to Ms. Alcala and Ms. Shipman, the two
children, together with their fathers, walk away holding
hands.
Ms. Alcala picks up Kenney's abandoned Pokémon toy from the
ground.
MS. ALCALA
I don't quite get it.
MS. SHIPMAN
You will when you become a parent.
They turn and watch as the boys and their father walk with
big, jumping steps towards the Pirate-Ship playground.
FADE TO BLACK:
FADE OUT.
THE END
Posted By
leokeechye@gmail.com
Categories
Fiction
Tags
autism, Parents