The Check In
August 18th, 2020
Starring: Samuel (male, 60’s), Kimmie (female, mid 20’s)
A split video call screen. One half is Kimmie, from her Tokyo Airbnb (nighttime). The other is Samuel, lying on his home couch (early morning).
SAMUEL
Where next?
KIMMIE
The Philippines.
SAMUEL
Wow.
Why?
KIMMIE
Because I know nothing about it. Seems unique. Beautiful.
SAMUEL
And that’s enough for you?
KIMMIE
For me…?
SAMUEL
To go.
…
A year’s a long time.
KIMMIE
It’s not that long.
SAMUEL
Because you have them to spare.
KIMMIE
And I’m using them.
...
Shouldn’t I be using them?
…
Dad?
SAMUEL
I’m listening.
KIMMIE
Are you?
SAMUEL
What do you need from me?
KIMMIE
I...just support?
SAMUEL
You’ve got it.
KIMMIE
I know.
But I still feel like every time we check-in it’s kind of a test.
...
I’m not trying to be hurtful. At all. I just want to know that whatever I decide to do you’re fully behind me.
SAMUEL
I’m behind you. I’m just not behind everything you decide to do. It doesn’t mean I’m going to stop you.
KIMMIE
But hearing that makes me want to stop.
SAMUEL
Then stop. Come home.
Or not. But don’t do it because of me.
KIMMIE
Ok.
I’m sorry.
I’m just trying to figure it out.
SAMUEL
I know you are.
I just want you getting the meaning you want.
KIMMIE
I think I am.
SAMUEL
I hope you are.
...
KIMMIE
Dad I should go to bed.
SAMUEL
Do that. It was good to see you.
KIMMIE
I’ll call you from Manila.
SAMUEL
Don’t worry, whenever you can.
Be safe.
KIMMIE
I’ll try.
SAMUEL
Bye.
KIMMIE
Bye
Lov—
Samuel logs off, leaving Kimmie looking at her own webcam reflection.