Just Kidding

A fish out of water comedy about a mother and her teenage son trying to build new lives in Portugal. The son is a little different and has some challenges; their relationship is complicated. The mom is so focused on taking care of her son that she cannot see how he is starting to not need her. Meanwhile, the son wants to exert his independence but is afraid to hurt his mom. This leaves them both stuck in their past life. The pair come to understand that finding acceptance in their new home requires them to accept that their relationship has changed.

CAST OF CHARACTERS

MOM

WALT

TRANSLATOR

GENERAL POMBOL

DAD

SENHORA NEVES

PRINCIPE

MAUD

LANA

POLICEMAN ONE

POLICEMAN TWO

TAXI DRIVER

CASHIER

CASH GUY

ANSWERING SERVICE

PORTER

JANITOR

TRAVELERS

BAGGAGE HANDLER

ANNOUNCERS

CAFE MEN

JUST KIDDING

ACT I

Scene 1

SETTING: INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT, IMMIGRATION LINEA 

AT RISE: A middle-aged woman and a teenage boy are waiting in line. The woman is carrying a large tote bag. She is smiling, while the boy has a bland expression. He has a nervous tick of tapping one of his hands on the back of the other. 

MOM

Stop fidgeting Walt. We want to make a good impression. Remember to look the man in the eyes.

POLICEMAN ONE

“Next!”

(MOM and WALT stand in front of a glass cubicle with two policemen inside.)

MOM

Bom dia!

POLICEMAN ONE 

(grunts)

Bom dia, Passport?

(MOM fumbles with her bag. After rummaging for a second, she pulls out two passports. She hands them to POLICEMAN ONE.)

POLICEMAN ONE

Purpose for your trip?

MOM 

(gushes so cheerful that it feels fake)

Couldn’t take the guns and politics anymore. Too stressful. We are taking a break in your lovely country.

POLICEMAN ONE 

( addresses POLICE MAN TWO)

Mais um Americana maluca. 

ENTER STAGE RIGHT, THE TRANSLATOR 

TRANSLATOR 

(Wearing a t-shirt that reads: Portuguese for Dummies, he carries a picture of Cristiano Ronaldo and a Portuguese flag)

Another crazy American.

POLICEMAN ONE

Child consent form?

(MOM starts pulling out ziplock bags with labels. After emptying the bags, she finally pulls out a stack of papers clipped together with color-coded sticky tabs.)

MOM 

Found it!

POLICEMAN ONE 

(stares at Walt)

Wh-all-ter? 

(He has a difficult time pronouncing the W and consequently draws out the name)

MOM

Actually, he goes by Walt- like Disney.

POLICEMAN ONE

Whaw-lt. (he still struggles with the W) How old are you, Wawlt?

(WALT stares back but does not answer. He begins to tap his hand faster.)

MOM

Walt doesn’t speak. He types on a keyboard. 

(MOM  pulls out a fold-up Bluetooth keyboard, waving it in front of the policemen. Then, she positions it in front of WALT)

MOM

Answer the nice gentleman, Walt.

(WALT holds out his right index finger to type.)

 BACK OF STAGE,  A PROJECTION OF A GOOGLE DOC/ WALT’S DIALOG

WALT

(types)

Eu tenho cinquenta anos. 

TRANSLATOR

I am 15 years old.

(POLICEMAN ONE looks over at POLICEMAN TWO for guidance. POLICEMAN TWO shrugs his shoulders ambiguously.)

MOM

Thankfully, Walt knows Portuguese! I am totally hopeless. 

POLICEMAN ONE

 (shakes his head)

This is a temporary residency permit. You will need to visit your local immigration office and register before it expires. Failure to do so will invalidate your residency application. Do you understand?

(MOM nods her head vigorously. WALT continues to stare, motionless. POLICEMAN ONE shrugs and reaches for his stamp, making a final show of reviewing the documents before marking the passports and handing them back. He dismisses them with a wave. MOM and WALT walk past.)

MOM

The Portuguese are so nice and helpful. I am sure we made the right decision.

EXIT STAGE RIGHT, MOM & WALT

POLICEMAN ONE

Que duplo! Quantos mais desses malucos vamos levar? 

TRANSLATOR

What a pair! How many more of these crazies are we going to take?

POLICEMAN TWO

Nao se precupe, esses dois nao duram um mes. 

TRANSLATOR

Don't worry about it; those two won’t last a month.

POLICEMAN ONE

Está certo. Eu dou a eles duas semanas no máximo. 

TRANSLATOR

You’re right. I give them two weeks tops.

(POLICEMAN ONE and POLICEMAN TWO are laughing.)

   POLICEMAN ONE

Next!

CURTAIN

ACT I

Scene 2

CURTAIN IS DOWN

SETTING: BAGGAGE CAROUSEL Bags lined up on stage in front of the curtain. All of them have yellow ribbons tied on. 

ENTER STAGE LEFT, MOM & WALT

MOM

I put yellow ribbons on the handles of our bags, so this should be easy peasy. 

(WALT looks over at the bags and then at MOM. MOM purposely avoids looking back.)

ENTER STAGE RIGHT, TRAVELERS

(TRAVELERS pick up the bags, then carry them off.)

EXIT STAGE RIGHT, TRAVELERS

ENTER STAGE LEFT, BAGGAGE HANDLER

(BAGGAGE HANDLER carries two beat-up bags with grease-stained yellow ribbons. One bag practically falls open.)

EXIT STAGE LEFT, BAGGAGE HANDLER

    MOM 

(takes the bag that is falling apart. She removes her belt and ties it around it)

At least they didn’t lose our bags.

(WALT and MOM  roll the bags towards the middle of the curtain where there is an Exit sign.) 

AT RISE: SPLIT STAGE

STAGE  LEFT: A crowded room full of travelers

STAGE  RIGHT: A middle-aged man in a dress shirt sits at a table with a computer on top

(WALT freezes up and refuses to move. MOM tries to nudge him along, but he tucks his head down like a giant turtle.)

MOM 

Walt, we have to move. Give me your hand! 

(MOM grabs hold of WALT and both bags and waddles through the crowd. A cell phone begins to ring.)

MOM

 (digs inside her tote and pulls out her phone)

Your father. Perfect timing. (she sounds not exactly sarcastic, but not exactly sincere either)

DAD

(holding a cell phone.)

How was your flight? I tracked you online. You guys made good time. 

MOM

Yes, it was good. We just cleared customs and are heading to the taxis.

DAD

How’s my guy?

(MOM looks at WALT, who is still stuck in the turtle position.)

MOM

Walt is pampering himself.

(The computer starts to make a noise. DAD looks at the screen.)

DAD 

(mumbles distractedly)

Great! I need to take this call. Talk to you guys later. I want to hear all about the trip. Oh, and don’t forget to…

(MOM stares at the phone. TOURISTS come up beside WALT. As they jostle around, one pushes against WALT.  MOM grabs WALT.)

CURTAIN

Act I

Scene 3

SETTING: TAXI LINE OUTSIDE THE AIRPORT

AT RISE: MOM & WALT stand before a taxi.

TAXI DRIVER 

(speaking in a rapid barrage)

Bom dia, I am Miquel, at your service. Are we going downtown today? I am an expert guide. If you wish I can take you on the scenic route by the most important sites for just 15 Euro extra. 

(Without waiting for a reply, TAXI DRIVER  grabs the bags. MOM and WALT follow.)

MOM

That sounds lovely, but we are just headed to the train station.

(TAXI DRIVER gets into the driver’s seat and puts on fancy driving cloves and sunglasses. He pulls out, spinning the wheel like a Formula One pilot.)

Squealing tires

(MOM and WALT fasten their seat belts.)

TAXI DRIVER

Where are you headed? 

MOM

The Algarve. 

TAXI DRIVER

Ah, the Algarve. Very nice. Beautiful. My sister lives there. She has a tavern in Faro. You should go. Best seafood in the Algarve. How long are you planning to stay?

MOM

We are moving there.

TAXI DRIVER

Just the two of you? Where’s your husband?

MOM

My husband is coming, but his boss got fired. Something about using company computers to look at personal stuff: my husband had to help reorganize the office. He’ll join us later. Besides, I have Walt. 

(MOM pats WALT on the arm.)

TAXI DRIVER

I have an idea. I could drive you down to Faro. Much nicer than the train. I charge you half the price. What do you say?

MOM

That is a lovely offer, but I think it’s beyond our budget. Maybe another time? Let me take your card. 

(TAXI DRIVER removes a black business card from behind his visor and hands it to MOM.)

MOM 

( reading the card aloud)

Miquel Paulo Mello da Silva -personal escort. Tours, airport transfers, weddings, and funerals

ENTER STAGE RIGHT, PORTER

(PORTER carries a sign that reads: Train Station.)

EXIT STAGE RIGHT, PORTER

(MOM pays TAXI DRIVER. He smiles broadly like it is a good tip. As he lays the bags on the curb, he waves to them.)

TAXI DRIVER

Until next time!

CURTAIN

ACT I

Scene 4

SETTING: BUSY TRAIN TERMINAL- MANY PEOPLE LOITERING AROUND 

AT RISE: WALT and MOM roll the bags in. They approach a line in front of a kiosk. 

(MOM & WALT wait their turn.)

KIOSK ATTENDANT

The airport transfer will cost 20 Euros. 

(MOM groans and pulls their bags to the side. WALT points at a large map. They walk over to it. WALT tugs on her sleeve. MOM reaches into her tote and pulls out his keyboard.)

WALT 

(types)

It's behind the newspaper stand.

(MOM & WALT pass a group of older men having coffee at a table. CAFE MEN, stop talking to watch them. One shrugs, and they start talking again. MOM and WALT get in the line and wait.)

KIOSK ATTENDANT

Diga! 

MOM

We would like two tickets for the next train to Faro.

KIOSK ATTENDANT 

(laughs; when she stops, wipes the tears from her eyes)

Senhora, there are no tickets for the next train—sold out (she points to a sign behind her).

MOM

Okay, for the following train then.

KIOSK ATTENDANT

That one is sold out, too (again, she points behind her). The next available train is at 8:30.

MOM

Alright, that’s five hours; we can wait.

KIOSK ATTENDANT

No, Senhora, we use the international time in Portugal- twenty-four hours. 8:30 is tomorrow morning.

MOM 

Um, We will make other arrangements then. Thank you.

(MOM and WALT exit the line.)

MOM

The bus will work just fine, probably even nicer than the train.

(WALT looks unconvinced, but he follows her.) 

CURTAIN

ACT I 

Scene 5

SETTING: THE BUS TERMINAL

AT RISE: MOM & WALT stand beside a kiosk, buses in the foreground.

MOM

(She smiles broadly, pointing to the kiosk.)

Look, Walt, no line! 

ENTER STAGE LEFT, JANITOR

(JANITOR sweeps by MOM & WALT. He gives them a curious look and then moves on. MOM and WALT approach the booth. There is a piece of paper stuck to the window. MOM leans in to read it.)

MOM

Greve?

(WALT tugs on her sleeve for the keyboard.)

WALT 

(types)

Strike.

(MOM and WALT waddle to a bench and sit down. WALT taps his hands rhythmically. MOM is finally broken; her optimistic veneer is gone.)

MOM 

What are we going to do? What will your father say?

(WALT stops tapping his hands. He looks over at MOM and starts to giggle. MOM starts to laugh, too. She reaches over to hug him. WALT stays stiff but does not pull away. MOM pulls back; a black business card falls to the ground. WALT tugs at her sleeve for the keyboard.)

WALT

Call, Mom.

(MOM reaches into her tote and pulls out her phone. She dials.)

MOM

Hello, Miquel…

CURTAIN

END OF ACT I

ACT II

Scene 1

SETTING: OUTSIDE THE BUS STATION

AT RISE: MOM AND WALT sit on a bench 

HONK!

(MOM and WALT turn to see the taxi.)

TAXI DRIVER 

(leans out the window)

Fate has brought us back together. It is destiny, no?

MOM

More like stupidity. I can’t believe I was that dumb, thinking I could just walk up and buy tickets to the beach in the middle of the summer.

(MOM hangs her shoulders in shame. TAXI DRIVER tries to look sympathetic as he picks up the bags.) 

TAXI DRIVER

Yes, we have a saying here. In August, Portugal turns upside down like a teapot. But, come, rest now. We are going to have a great trip. The train is noisy and crowded. You will be much more comfortable with me.

(TAXI DRIVER smiles. MOM tries to smile, too, but it is not very enthusiastic. They climb into the car. TAXI DRIVER turns to face them.)

TAXI DRIVER

May I listen to the game on the radio? My team has a big match today. 

MOM

Sure. We are in Portugal now. Time to start acting like the locals. (She sounds almost optimistic again)

TAXI DRIVER

That’s the way, Senhora.

(TAXI DRIVER  turns on the radio. He turns up the volume. The announcers are speaking rapidly and boisterously.)

SPLIT STAGE

STAGE LEFT: ANNOUNCERS

STAGE RIGHT: TAXI

(THE ANNOUNCERS are two men in soccer jerseys, speaking into microphones.)

ANNOUNCERS

OOOOOOOOH, Que feio!

TAXI DRIVER

Incompetente! 

(MOM looks to WALT as the TAXI DRIVER starts to gesticulate with his hands. WALT taps for the keyboard.)

WALT 

(types)

His team is losing, and he thinks the coach is incompetent. 

(The taxi driver is sullen and does not speak. MOM looks to WALT for guidance. They sit silently for a minute. )

ANNOUNCERS 

(yell)

Goal! 

TAXI DRIVER 

(starts singing)

(WALT taps for the keyboard.)

WALT 

(types)

His team scored. 

MOM

I figured that one out.

Phone ringing

(TAXI DRIVER taps his ear and listens for a few seconds)

TAXI DRIVER

Mama! Eu falei, nao ligava quando eu estava trabhalando. Sim, sim, eu sei, mas.....

(TAXI DRIVER sighs repeatedly and bites his lip.)

TAXI DRIVER

Eu estou indo para Faro. Vai voltar à tarde. (He squints and grits his teeth like he is being yelled at.) Eu nao sabia, Mama! (He rolls his eyes) Eu…

(TAXI DRIVER listens for a few seconds more)

TAXI DRIVER

Sim, Mama, Beijo. (Speaks the last word in a defeated tone)

(TAXI DRIVER taps his earpiece.)

TAXI DRIVER

My Mama is upset that I didn't tell her I was going to Faro. As if I knew! She wanted me to take some bread to my sister as if they don’t have bakeries in Faro!

(WALT and MOM nod in sympathy with the man.)

TAXI DRIVER

Would you like to take a coffee break? There is a nice stop up the road. I think we all could use some fresh air. 

MOM

That would be nice.

CURTAIN

ACT II

Scene 2

SETTING: A GAS STATION ALONG THE ROAD

AT RISE: A large bar is on the back wall. Several people are loitering around. 

TAXI DRIVER

I need to use the facilities. Go ahead and order your coffee.

EXIT STAGE RIGHT, TAXI DRIVER

MOM

OK, Walt, let’s do this.

(MOM and WALT walk to the bar where a young WAITRESS takes orders. MOM and WALT wait patiently for their turn, but people keep jumping in front of them. Bewildered, they watch the others getting served. Finally, the young waitress takes pity on them.)

WAITRESS

Posso ajuda? 

MOM

Sim, two coffees and one water, por favor.

(WAITRESS smiles at WALT. She hands them a slip of paper and points to a mad-looking gentleman at the end of the bar.)

CASH GUY

Tres Euro, onze centavos.

(MOM pulls out her wallet and hands CASH GUY a bill. He looks upset with her.)

CASH GUY

Você não tem troca?

ENTER STAGE RIGHT, TAXI DRIVER

(TAXI DRIVER speaks rapidly with CASH GUY and hands him some coins. TAXI DRIVER hands MOM back her bill.)

MOM

Oh, thank you. I didn’t catch what he was saying. He was a little intimidating. 

TAXI DRIVER

Nada. (He waves off her gratitude.) Come, Senhora, let’s wait over there. (He points at an empty table in the corner.)

    CASH GUY

Dezoito!

(TAXI DRIVER goes to the counter to retrieve a tray with a bottle of water and two espressos. He smiles flirtatiously at the WAITRESS. CASH GUYgives disapproving look.) 

MOM 

(looking confused)

I didn’t order that. I ordered a coffee.

TAXI DRIVER

Un cafe is an espresso. You must ask for an Americano.

(MOM and the TAXI DRIVER start to drink. MOM gets a funny expression on her face. Her lips pucker up. TAXI DRIVER laughs.)

TAXI DRIVER

Welcome to Portugal.

CURTAIN

ACT II

Scene 3

SETTING: BACK INSIDE THE TAXI

AT RISE: They are back in the taxi.

MOM

How much further do we have to go?

TAXI DRIVER 

Almost there. 

(Arrive at white villa behind an iron gate.)

MOM 

( sighs)

Wow! The website wasn’t photoshopped. This place is amazing.

TAXI DRIVER 

(removes his sunglasses and eyes the place)

Muita gira. Very pretty.

(MOM suddenly looks serious. She begins to fidget with her bag) 

MOM

How much do we owe you?

TAXI DRIVER

Don’t worry, Senhora. I give you a discount, remember? Only 250 Euro.

(MOM pulls out her wallet and carefully extracts a stack of bills. She counts them out silently. Keeping two small bills for herself, she hands the stack to the driver.)

MOM

Thanks again. You saved our bacon.

(TAXI DRIVER is confused by her comment. He shrugs it off and gets out to retrieve the bags, setting them in front of the gate. Then he hurries back to the taxi.)

TAXI DRIVER 

(gives the thumbs-up sign)

Until next time!

(MOM and WALT watch as the taxi drives away.)

EXIT STAGE RIGHT, TAXI DRIVER

MOM

Let’s get inside, Walt. 

(MOM reaches for the handle on the gate. It’s locked.)

CURTAIN

ACT II

Scene 4

SETTING: AT THE HOUSE, IN FRONT OF THE GATE

AT  RISE: MOM & WALT are sitting on the ground. 

(MOM digs in her tote bag and pulls out her phone. She puts it on speaker.)

Ring, ring, ringSilver Coast Realty: We make dreams come true. Please leave a message at the tone. 

MOM

Hello, I rented the villa on Praia das Flores. I seem to be locked out. If it is not a bother, could you please send someone here as soon as possible? I would be incredibly grateful. 

(There is a noise coming from the right.)

ENTER STAGE RIGHT, SENHORA NEVES & PRINCIPE

(SENHORA NEVES is in her late sixties, with a silver bouffant hairstyle and a flowering silk kimono. She is accompanied by a white poodle with a fake gemstone collar.)

SENHORA NEVES

You must be my new neighbors. Welcome!

(SENHORA NEVES leans in for an air kiss, but MOM doesn’t expect it, so they bump shoulders.)

SENHORA NEVES

Maria, at the office, told me some Americans had rented Casa dos Sonhos. I am Maria Teressa Neves, but everyone just calls me Teressa. (Looks at WALT) Who might this handsome man be? 

(SENHORA NEVES bats her eyes at WALT. He ignores her, looking instead at PRINCIPE.)

MOM

It’s a pleasure to meet you, Senhora Teressa. My name is Diana, and this is my son, Walt.

(WALT is not listening. MOM clears her throat to get his attention.)

MOM

Walter, dear. 

(WALT looks up. MOM reaches into her bag to get his keyboard. PRINCIPE is afraid of the keyboard and starts to bark.)

PRINCIPE

Grrrrr!

              SENHORA NEVES

Principe, Stop!

(PRINCIPE stops barking and scoots behind his owner.)

MOM

Walt types to communicate. 

(SENHORA NEVES  looks perplexed. MOM puts the keyboard in front of WALTt so that he can type.)

WALT 

(types)

Prazer de conhecê-la. 

ENTER STAGE RIGHT, TRANSLATOR-NOW IN SHORTS, FLIP FLOPS, AND SUNGLASSES

TRANSLATOR

Nice to meet you.

SENHORA NEVES

You speak Portuguese?

WALT (types)

Sim, Senhora. Eu appredndeu no Internet.

TRANSLATOR

Yes, I learned on the Internet.

(PRINCIPE sneaks a peek from behind SENHORA NEVE)

Sound of a car

ENTER STAGE RIGHT, GENERAL POMBAL IN CAR

(SENHORA NEVES waves frantically. GENERAL POMBOL,  a distinguished-looking gentleman in his late sixties, looks at them but does not wave back. He drives past.)

EXIT STAGE LEFT, GENERAL POMBOL IN CAR

SENHORA NEVE

( sighs)

That’s General Pomnol. He is a retired general (she does not seem to notice that this is a restatement of the obvious). General Pombol has lived here since the resort was founded. He knows everything about Praia das Flores. He is a little standoffish (she says standoffish like she has never said the word before, so it comes out like three distinctly separate words, stand-off-ish), but he has tools.

(MOM and WALT shake their heads like they understand.)

ENTER STAGE LEFT, LANA

(A very put-together woman wearing a fancy dress with matching shoes and  bag joins the group.)

LANA

(speaks with a subtle Eastern European or 

Scandinavian accent.)

Mrs. Green? I am Lana from Silver Coast Realty. I am sorry I was not here to meet you. Your husband said you would call before you left Lisbon.

MOM 

(looks over at Walt)

Yes, we had some issues in Lisbon. I am sorry for the inconvenience. I appreciate you coming at such a late hour. 

LANA

There was no inconvenience at all. The gate is actually for show. It is very safe here. We usually leave the gate open, but your husband insisted that we keep the property closed until you arrive.

(MOM and WALT exchange a knowing look.)

MOM

Yes, my husband is very thorough. (It is clear from her tone that this is not a compliment)

LANA

Well, shall we get you settled in? 

(LANA pulls out some keys and opens the gate. She motions for them to enter. As they pass, she eyes their beat-up bags suspiciously.)

LANA 

Casa das Sonhos has a lovely garden, which the gardener cleans every week. 

(WALT starts to  bounce on his toes.)

LANA

Yes, the pool. It’s serviced every Saturday morning. 

(SENHORA NEVES and PRINCIPE are snooping around.)

LANA

Here are your keys.

(LANA hands MOM the keys. She waits for MOM to insert the key.)

LANA

It is a double-lock system. It locks immediately when you shut the door, so please be careful not to lock yourself out.

LANA 

( looks at her watch)

Well, now that you are settled. I will leave you to enjoy Casa dos Sonhos. If you need any further assistance, call the office. Ciao.

(MOM, WALT, SENHORA NEVES & PRINCIPE are standing awkwardly in front of the open doorway.) 

MOM

Senhora Teressa, thank you for waiting with us. I’m sure you are very busy (she is trying to get rid of the other woman). 

      SENHORA NEVES

Don’t worry! Principe and I love meeting new people.

(MOM gives up and motions for WALT and the other woman to enter the house. PRINCIPE frantically wags his tail in approval. They all go in.)

CURTAIN

ACT II

Scene 5

SETTING:  LIVING ROOM WITH A  DOOR OPEN TO GARDEN

AT  RISE: MOM and SENHORA NEVES are looking at a very risqué painting on the wall. PRINCIPE is sniffing the sofa. WALT is looking out the door.

SENHORA NEVES

How interesting. I could almost swear that the lady was Maud. 

(MOM and SENHORA NEVES stare at the painting. Meanwhile, WALT sneaks away and goes out through the door. He is out of sight.)

Splash!

(MOM and SENHORA NEVES rush to the door.)

MOM

Walter! Get Out of there at once! 

(A soaking wet WALT, still in his clothes, comes over to MOM, and SENHORA NEVES. He is very happy, humming softly, oblivious to his mother’s displeasure. PRINCIPE joins the group and starts to lick up the water on the ground.)

SENHORA NEVES

I think it’s time for us to go home, Principe.

MOM

Oh, really? Don’t rush on account of Walt. He just loves swimming. 

SENHORA NEVES

Yes, it has been hot. I’m sure he just wanted to cool off. But it is getting late, and you are probably exhausted.

(MOM stifles a yawn.)

 SENHORA NEVES 

Ciao.

EXIT STAGE LEFT, SENHORA NEVES, and PRINCIPE

(MOM and WALT are alone. MOM turns out the lights.)

MOM

Well, Walt, it’s just me and you now.

CURTAIN

END OF ACT TWO

ACT III

Scene 1

SETTING: MOM’S BEDROOM- LIGHT COMING IN THROUGH CRACKS IN THE SHUTTERS 

AT RISE: MOM is asleep.

Sound of leaf blower

MOM 

(shoots up in bed)

Oh, H-E-double hockey sticks!

(MOM gets out of bed, puts on a robe, and pats down her hair. She opens the window. Outside is a little man wearing a huge straw hat and dark sunglasses. He holds the leaf blower and his cell phone.)

HECTOR, THE GARDENER

Bom dia, Senhora. I am pleased to meet you. I am Hector. The gardener. (He has a very strong agent)

MOM

 (very tired voice)

Bom dia, Hector.

HECTOR

It is lovely day, no? I brought you some oranges from my farm. Great for jet lag. I leave it on the front door.

MOM

Thank you. That was very kind of you. My son loves oranges.

HECTOR:

Everyone loves oranges.

(WALT bursts into the room. He’s wearing PJs. He hums and bounces up and down.)

MOM

Walt, dear, say hello to Hector. He brought us oranges.

(WALT stays away from the window. He seems apprehensive about the leaf blower. He raises a finger in greeting.)

MOM

Well, we better get going. We have already slept half the day away. 

HECTOR 

( tips his hat)

I will see you later. I show you the garden, no?

MOM

Yes, that would be great! 

(The leaf blower starts again, and WALT grabs his ears.)

MOM

Come on, let's go get some oranges.

CURTAIN

ACT III

Scene 2

SETTING: THE LIVING ROOM

AT RISE: MOM and WALT sit on the sofa. Mom has tons of little white booklets on her lap. She is reading one.

MOM

Imagine that! Instructions in fifteen different languages! So international. This is Europe. 

(WALT rolls his eyes and stares out the window.)

ENTER STAGE RIGHT, SENHORA NEVES & PRINCIPE

(SENHORA NEVES and PRINCIPE walk by the house.. She is looking around nosy- and PRINCIPE is peeing on the hedge.)

Phone rings

EXIT STAGE LEFT, SENHORA NEVES & PRINCIPE

MOM

That’s probably your father! 

SPLIT STAGE

STAGE LEFT: DAD is in his robe, sipping a cup of coffee.

DAD

How was the first night in the new place? Did you sleep ok?

MOM

Yes, like a rock. I didn’t imagine we would be so exhausted.

DAD

I told you to take that jet lag medicine. You should have listened.

MOM

Yes, dear, you were right...of course. (She is a little annoyed but not too obvious about it) Anyway, we met the gardener and the next-door neighbor. They were both very welcoming. Hector, the gardener, brought us fresh oranges.

DAD

Be sure to wash them well. You don’t know what he puts on them, and you don’t want to get food poisoning.

(DAD opens the newspaper. He is trying to multitask. MOM is upset that he is not giving them his full attention.)

MOM

Any other advice for us? You have our complete attention.

DAD 

(he is oblivious to the jab)

Not off the top of my head, but remember, you are not in the United States anymore. People are different. You need to be on your guard. Don’t let Walter wander off. Be sure always to pay attention to your surroundings.

MOM

I think we are safe enough here. Last I checked, there were no mass shootings. 

DAD

Don’t be defensive; you can just be naive sometimes. All I’m asking is for you to be practical. 

MOM

Fine, we’ll be practical. Right, Walt?

(WALT looks uncomfortable with the whole exchange. He slumps on the couch and looks away.)

DAD

I have to get in the shower. I can’t be late for work. This whole reorg is such a mess! (He mumbles something to himself as he stands up from the table) Take care of your mom, Walter. Don’t give her any trouble. I love you. 

(DAD hangs up)

MOM

(Sad voice)

Love you too.

CURTAIN

ACT III

Scene 3

SETTING: IN FRONT OF THE GATE- EARLY EVENING- 

AT RISE: WALT and MOM  are sweaty and out of breath. 

MOM

Who knew that a walk on the beach could be so invigorating? But what a beautiful way to sweat. 

(MOM digs in her bag for keys.)

ENTER STAGE LEFT, GENERAL POMBAL IN CAR

( MOM waves and smiles. GENERAL POMBAL nods but continues on.)

EXIT STAGE RIGHT, GENERAL POMBOL IN CAR

MOM

He’s a friendly one.

(MOM & WALT laugh.)

ENTER STAGE LEFT, SENHORA NEVES, PRINCIPE, and MAUD

(SENHORA NEVES and PRINCIPE come up to MOM and WALT. There is another woman with them. She is the woman from the painting. MOM stares at the woman)

SENHORA NEVES

Boa tarde!

MOM

Boa tar-day

(WALT is studying the woman, too. MOM’s eyes suddenly widened with recognition.)

SENHORA NEVES

This is Maud, our most talented neighbor—a great actress. 

MOM

Really? Have you been in anything we would have seen?

MAUD

A few plays in London (She says with a lilting accent). Nothing so grand. I have done a few things for the telly, though. 

SENHORA NEVES

She’s too modest. Maud knows Kirk Givens! You know, the guy from Downstairs Abbey?

(MOM nods her head vigorously.) 

MAUD

Yes, we did Glastonbury. He was taking a break from Hollywood. 

(MAUD  stares off like she is remembering something. The others are unsure whether they should intrude on her thoughts.)

SENHORA NEVES

Well, we should get going. 

(SENHORA NEVES hurriedly air kisses MOM. Then she smiles at WALT. MAUD is still distracted by the previous conversation.) 

EXIT STAGE RIGHT, SENHORA NEVES, PRINCIPE, and MAUD

(MOM starts to laugh. WALT smiles.)

MOM

You recognized her from the picture, didn’t you?

(MOM pulls out Walt’s keyboard.)

WALT 

(types)

Maybe. 

MOM

You totally recognized her! I saw you staring.

(WALT blushes.)

WALT 

(types):

I’m hungry. Can we stop now?

MOM

I do believe you are changing the subject. OK. Let’s see what we can find in the cabinets. Tomorrow is definitely going to be a shopping day.

CURTAIN

ACT III

Scene 4

SETTING: GROCERY STORE-CHECKOUT AISLE

AT RISE: WALT looks impatient. He taps the cart with one hand. MOM is searching for something in her purse. The CASHIER clearly does not want to be there.

CASHIER 

(unenthusiastic tone)

Bom dia. 

MOM

(Very animated)

Bom dia! 

(CASHIER rolls her eyes. MOM starts piling things up in front of the cashier, who bags them up.)

CASHIER

Cartao  Sol Livre?

(MOM stares at the cashier, confused. She did not understand the question.)

CASHIER

Store card? (the clerk says in perfect English with a “you are an idiot” tone of voice)

MOM

Oh, no, we don’t have one of those.

ENTER STAGE LEFT, GENERAL POMBOL

(GENERAL POMBOL comes up behind them and extends a card to the cashier.)

GENERAL POMBOL

Use o meu. (He speaks with an authoritative voice)

(The CASHIER sits up straighter, clearly in response to the newcomer.)

MOM

Obrigado! 

GENERAL POMBOL

You just moved into Casa dos Sonhos. I am your neighbor. Manoel Pombol, at your service.

(GENERAL POMBAL extends a hand to MOM. She shakes it vigorously.)

CASHIER

Fifty-eight Euros.

(MOM hastily reaches for her wallet and hands over her card.)

GENERAL POMBOL

Can I help? (he points to the bags)

MOM

Oh, thank you, but I think Walt and I can manage. 

(GENERAL POMBAL gives WALTt a good-looking over. WALT taps his hands vigorously and looks down)

GENERAL POMBOL

Yes, he looks like a good officer. 

(WALT stands up straighter; he is proud of the praise.)

MOM

(Smiles)

Well, thanks again. 

(GENERAL POMBAL nods his head. WALT and MOM carry the bags out of the store. Outside, they look around, searching for something. GENERAL POMBOL exits  the store behind them.)

GENERAL POMBOL

(he looks around)

Are you waiting for someone? 

MOM

Well, the cab was supposed to be here, but…

Phone rings

(MOM pulls out her phone.)

MOM

It’s a message from the driver. His mother needed him to drop by the house first. He says he’ll be here in twenty minutes.

GENERAL POMBOL

Pff, that means thirty minutes, minimum. Senhora, let me give you a lift.

MOM

I wouldn’t want to impose on you.

GENERAL POMBOL

Nonsense, I insist.

(GENERAL POMBAL leads WALT and MOM over to his car. They load the bags and get in. MOM sits in the front. WALT stretches out in the backseat.)

MOM

Your car is so clean.

GENERAL POMBOL

Old habits. Military life is highly regimented. Helps with the anxiety.

MOM

Anxiety?

GENERAL POMBOL

Yes, young men and women without experience are often scared and feel lost. They crave structure so they do not have to think about everything they are asked to do. 

MOM

Oh,’ I hadn’t thought about it like that. 

(They are all silent for a moment.)

 GENERAL POMBOL

I am planning to redo the gazebo in my garden. Would your son care to help me? I would pay, of course. It’s just hard to find good help. Most young people work in hotels and don’t have time.

MOM

I don’t…

(WALT makes a noise in the backseat. He reaches for MOM’s arm and taps on it, indicating he wants the keyboard.) 

MOM

Walt wants to speak. He uses a keyboard to communicate. It’s unusual, I know, but…

GENERAL POMBOL

I like men of few words. 

(MOM nods and reaches behind to extend the keyboard to WALT.)

WALT

(types)

I’m interested.

GENERAL POMBOL

Good.

(GENERAL POMBAL stops at the gate for them to unload.) 

MOM

Thank you for the lift.

GENERAL POMBOL

Nada. Walt, I will see you tomorrow morning. Nine AM sharp.

(GENERAL POMBAL gives a little bow, gets back into the car, and drives away.)

MOM

Looks like you just got your first job. We have to tell your father!

CURTAIN

ACT III

Scene 5

SETTING: LIVING ROOM-THAT EVENING

AT RISE: SPLIT STAGE

STAGE RIGHT, DAD is sitting at a table.

STAGE LEFT, MOM & WALT are in the living room, sitting on the couch.

Phone rings

DAD

You two look cozy. A life of leisure suits you. 

MOM

 (She stiffens)

Actually, we had a busy day. We went to the store to get groceries, and then we cleaned around the house. It was pretty dusty. The owners must not have been using it for quite some time. Oh,’ and Walt got a job.

DAD 

(is nodding absently until MOM mentions the job.)

A job! What kind of job? 

MOM

Our neighbor, General Pombol, asked Walt to help him work on his gazebo. 

DAD

I don’t know about this. Tools are dangerous. Walt can be unpredictable. I think it would be better if you declined the offer.

(WALT looks over at MOM. He is worried that she will agree to this.)

MOM

Too late. He already accepted. Don’t worry; I will check up on him. Besides, General Pombol seems like an excellent teacher.

(WALT smiles, obviously relieved. MOM smiles back.)

DAD

What if Walt gets hurt? You can’t be there every second.

MOM

I trust Walt. 

DAD

But he goes around like a... 

MOM

Like a boy, you really need to remember what it is like to be a teenager. It will be fine.

(DAD still looks unconvinced. But he is interrupted by a ringing phone.) 

DAD

I have to take this call. We can discuss this later. I love you both.

END SPLIT STAGE

(MOM looks tired. WALT goes over to kiss her. She smiles at him.)

MOM

It’s going to be fine. Your father just thinks he knows best. But in this case, I have to differ. You are ready. He’ll come around eventually. In the meantime, we will just ignore him. 

CURTAIN

END OF ACT THREE

ACT IV

Scene 1

SETTING: GENERAL POMBOL’S GAZEBO- AFTERNOON

AT RISE: WALT and GENERAL POMBOL are hammering some boards. 

(MOM walks up with two water bottles.)

MOM

Water break? 

( WALT looks to GENERAL POMBOL for confirmation that it is OK to stop working.)

GENERAL POMBOL

Good idea. It is getting hot out here. 

(WALT and GENERAL POMBOL drink while Mom looks around the garden).

MOM

This is a beautiful garden. Do you keep it up by yourself? 

GENERAL POMBOL

No, I have someone who comes to clean it up. It was my late wife’s passion. Louisa said that flowers were like clever poems composed by nature. She spent hours getting the composition just right. 

MOM

I’m sorry. If you don’t mind me asking, when did she die? 

GENERAL POMBOL

You are direct. Definitely an American. Luckily, I like directness and Americans. (He smiles) Louisa died five years ago. 

(WALT  bumps into something lying on the ground, and the others are distracted from the conversation.)

GENERAL POMBOL

No worries, Walt. We can fix that. We had better get back to work, though, if we are going to get the frame done today. 

(MOM nods and gathers up the bottles to take away. As she starts to go, she looks back at WALT and the General.)

CURTAIN

ACT IV

Scene 2

SETTING: GENERAL POMBOL’S GAZEBO- LATER

AT RISE: WALT & GENERAL POMBOL are working on the gazebo.

( WALT yawns. He is very tired. GENERAL POMBOL smiles)

GENERAL POMBOL

Pick up that screwdriver for me.

(WALT searches the tool pile and picks up the wrench. GENERAL POMBAL shakes his head, and WALT searches again. He finds the screwdriver. GENERAL POMBOL nods.)

GENERAL POMBOL

When I was your age, Walt, I knew I wanted to see the world, but my family thought I was being fanciful. My parents wanted me to be an accountant. You see, my dad was an accountant, my uncles were accountants, and all my brothers and sisters were accountants. They couldn’t understand why I would want to enlist in the military. It was dangerous, my mother said. It was beneath me, my sisters complained. It was a waste, my father agreed. Still, I knew my destiny was out there. Walt, sometimes the people who love us cannot see. Their perspectives and expectations are so rooted in their own lives. They are blind. Do you understand what I’m telling you, Walt? 

(WALT stands next to GENERAL POMBAL. He goes mid-way towards hugging but turns away at the end and instead leans his shoulder into the General’s shoulder. GENERAL POMBAL pats WALT on the shoulder.)

GENERAL POMBOL

Come on, let’s do this. 

CURTAIN

ACT IV

Scene 3

SETTING: LIVING ROOM- SAME TIME

AT  RISE: SPLIT STAGE

STAGE RIGHT: DAD is having coffee at a table in his bathrobe.

STAGE LEFT: MOM trying to read something. 

Phone rings

(MOM answers the phone.)

DAD

Where’s Walt?

MOM

Walt is next door helping the General. He has taken a genuine interest in him.

DAD

The General? 

MOM

Yes, General Pombol has been great. He treats Walt like a young man and not a child. Walt respects him.

DAD

But Walt is not an average young man. You can’t just let him do certain things. He needs to be protected. Really Jane, I expected you to know better. You’re his mother. It’s your job to care for him.

MOM 

(Angry, she hits her hand down on the table)

I know my responsibilities. I am here.

DAD

You know why I had to stay. I was needed at work. I couldn’t say no. That would have been irresponsible.

MOM

Yes, irresponsible. No one would ever call you that. I think that helping the General is what Walt needs. He can’t always be with his mother. That gets old. You need to start accepting that Walt is growing up.

(They are both silent for a while.) 

DAD

I’m sorry. I just feel helpless. I’m stuck here, and the two of you are alone. I worry.

MOM

I know, but sometimes you have to relax and have a little faith in us. 

DAD

I love you.

MOM

I love you, too. 

DAD

Tell Walt I’m proud of him.

MOM

I will.

(They hang up. MOM stares off into space in the living room. DAD stares off into space at the table.)

CURTAIN

ACT IV

Scene 4

SETTING: IN FRONT OF THE GATE- LATE AFTERNOON

AT THE RISE: GENERAL POMBAL, MOM, and WALT are outside the gate.

MOM

Finished?

GENERAL POMBOL

That’s debatable. I think I need Walt to help me some more. What do you say, Walt? Are you up for it?

(WALT smiles.)

MOM

I think that's affirmative. 

(MOM and GENERAL POMBAL laugh.

ENTER STAGE LEFT, SENHORA NEVES & PRINCIPE

SENHORA NEVES

What’s so amusing? Do tell.

PRINCIPE 

Bark 

GENERAL POMBOL

Walt and I have been working on my gazebo. 

SENHORA NEVES

What’s funny about that?

GENERAL POMBOL

If you saw our progress, you would laugh, too. 

SENHORA NEVES

Oh,’ I’m sure it looks spectacular. (she says breathlessly) 

GENERAL POMBOL

What do you think, Walt?

(MOM pulls a keyboard from her back pocket.) 

WALT

(types)

Built to fall. But we can do remediation.

GENERAL POMBOL

I’ll take that as a yes for tomorrow. Be there at 9 AM sharp. I will even get us pastries.

(WALT smiles.)

GENERAL POMBOL

Ladies, it Looks like I need to go to the store. If you will excuse me?

(GENERAL POMBAL leaves. The group watches after him. It’s clear that Senhora Neves has a crush on the General.)

SENHORA NEVES

Isn’t he fabulous? 

(MOM smiles and nods her head in amusement. SENHORA NEVES doesn’t even notice. )

SENHORA NEVES

So commanding. 

(PRINCIPE starts to whine.)

SENHORA NEVES

Oh, it’s time for Principe’s dinner. He is so spoiled. Aren’t you my little prince? (She says the last part in a baby-talk voice) Ciao darlings.

MOM

I’m really proud of you, Walt. You are a modern gentleman. Your father agrees. He and I talked earlier, and he told me to tell you that. 

(WALT looks up, surprised. He also seems skeptical.)

MOM

Really!

(WALT starts to run towards the house.)

MOM

I guess Principe isn’t the only one ready for dinner.

(MOM turns to follow WALT inside. When she gets to the door, she realizes it’s locked.)

MOM

Walter!

CURTAIN

ACT IV

Scene 5

SETTING: OUTSIDE THE HOUSE- NEXT MORNING

AT RISE: MOM and WALT are just coming out the front door. 

MOM

Remember to listen to General Pombol’s instructions.

(WALT rolls his eyes. He waves his typing finger and leaves.) 

Sound of splashing water

(MOM walks toward the pool. A shirtless young man with a dark tan is cleaning the pool.)

POOL GUY

Bom dia Senhora!

MOM

Bom dia.

(POOL GUY smiles and continues his work.)

ENTER STAGE LEFT, SENHORA NEVES & PRINCIPE

(MOM turns to go back into the house and almost bumps into SENHORA NEVES, who has come up behind her and is watching the pool guy.)

SENHORA NEVES

I wish I had a pool. (she is not talking about the pool)

MOM

Um...yes, for hot days like today- When you can’t help getting sweaty. (Mom is oblivious to the way her words could be taken)

(SENHORA NEVES coughs. She suddenly eyes Mom like she is trying to figure something out.)

SENHORA NEVES

You haven’t told me about Walt’s father. Is he still...um, in the picture?

MOM

Oh yes, Jerry, my husband, he got stuck back in the States. A work thing.

SENHORA NEVES

Ah’ how very American. Will he be joining you and Walt after this work thing?

MOM

I hope so. (she sounds a little unsure)

(MOM and SENHORA NEVES are silent.)

SENHORA NEVES: 

In the meantime, you and Walt will just have to join us.

MOM

Us?

SENHORA NEVES

Us- Principe and I 

MOM

I have an idea. Would you care to join Walt and I for dinner? I am not a gourmet, but I can cook. I’ll ask the General, too.

SENHORA NEVES

General Pombol?

MOM

Uh’ yes. Do you have plans? It is short notice…

SENHORA NEVES

I will be there!

MOM

Great! Eight o'clock?

SENHORA NEVES

Perfeito! Excuse me, I need to get ready. So little time. Ciao. 

(SENHORA NEVES blows MOM a kiss and is off. MOM is left with the POOL GUY. She smiles at him bashfully and goes inside.)

CURTAIN

END OF ACT FOUR

ACT V

Scene 1

SETTING: GENERAL POMBOL’S GARDEN- LUNCHTIME

AT RISE: WALT  and GENERAL POMBAL are hanging up a tarp.

(MOM approaches. She does not notice more fabric lying on the ground. She steps on it, leaving dirty footprints.)

MOM

Oh no!

(GENERAL POMBAL and WALT turn around to face her.)

MOM

I’m so sorry. I wasn’t paying attention. I’ll get a rag.

GENERAL POMBOL

No need! That was just extra. We have enough here. 

MOM 

(she eyes their work) 

Wow! You guys have been working hard. It looks great!

(WALT smiles, and GENERAL POMBAL smiles back.)

MOM

This deserves a party. Perhaps you could join us for a celebratory dinner, General?

GENERAL POMBOL

I don’t know (He looks at Walt, who is clearly hoping he will say yes) I guess I could do that. What time?

MOM

Eight. Will that work? I know it is a little early for Portugal, but Walt is an early riser.

GENERAL POMBOL

Me too. I believe a man should finish all his work by lunchtime.

MOM

So that’s an affirmative?

GENERAL POMBOL

Yes, I’m looking forward to spending time with my friend Walt.

MOM

Okie dokie. We’ll see you at eight then. 

(MOM and WALT walk back to the house. In front of the gate, a letter is stuck inside the iron scrolls. Mom retrieves it. As she reads it, she sighs. She wads it up and sticks it inside a pocket.)

MOM

Come on, Walt, we have a party to prepare for.

CURTAIN

ACT V

Scene 2

SETTING: THE LIVING ROOM- EVENING

AT RISE: MOM sets the table. 

MOM

Walt, help me with the silverware. I need to get the roast out of the oven.

(WALT  waits for her to go into the kitchen, and then he dumps the silverware into a pile at the center of the table.)

Knocking at the door

MOM

Walt, get the door, please.

(WALT walks over to the door. He opens it a tiny bit and peers out. GENERAL POMBOL stands at the door waiting.)

GENERAL POMBOL

Invite me in, Walt. 

(WALT steps back but does not open the door further. Instead, he just walks away. GENERAL POMBOL follows. He is dressed in a jacket. He has brought a bottle of wine. He goes over to the table to lay it down and sees the pile of silverware.)

GENERAL POMBOL

I can see you have been helping again, Walt. Let’s sort this out, okay? I think you have one too many settings here.

(MOM walks back into the room.)

MOM

Oh no, that’s right. Four: you, me, Walt, and Senhora Neves.

GENERAL POMBOL

I didn’t know she would be joining.

MOM

Oh’ it was a spur-of-the-moment thing. You don’t mind, do you? 

GENERAL POMBOL

Absolutely not. (He does not sound convincing) Delighted. 

(WALT gives MOM a suspicious look. She quickly looks away. There is a knock at the door, and they all turn to face it.)

MOM

That must be Senhora Neves. I’ll go get the door. You guys sit down and relax.

(MOM opens the door. SENHORA NEVES is dressed up in a full-length gown.) 

SENHORA NEVES

Boa noite, I’m not late am I? Principe insisted on going out.

MOM

Not at all. Where is Principe? Did you leave him home alone?

SENHORA NEVES

Oh no, he’s doing doggie yoga with Maud.

(The others look baffled.)

MOM

Sit down and relax. I am just finishing up in the kitchen. 

Mom leaves the three of them.

SENHORA NEVES

Slacking off General? 

GENERAL POMBOL

Actually, Walt and I finished the gazebo today. We are celebrating.

(GENERAL POMBAL winks at WALT.)

SENHORA NEVES

In that case, I need to hang outdoor curtains. Perhaps you strong men could help me?

GENERAL POMBOL

Eh’ well, I need to confer with Walt here.

SENHORA NEVES

Of course, he wants to help. Right, Walt?

(WALT  looks at the General for clarification. Mom comes back with a tray of food.)

MOM

I hope you like roast beef. It’s Walt’s favorite. 

(WALT reaches for the plate, but GENERAL POMBAL stops him.)

GENERAL POMBOL

Ladies first, Walt.

(WALT withdraws his hands and sits waiting. But he continues to stare at the meat.)

SENHORA NEVES

Most gallant, General.

(GENERAL POMBAL looks flustered and embarrassed.)

MOM

Yes, you’re having an incredible effect on Walt. I have never seen him so patient around a steak.

(WALT is still eying the steak intently. When, at last, Mom hands him a plate, he immediately starts eating.)

SENHORA NEVES

I think a toast is in order. 

GENERAL POMBOL 

(He pours three glasses)

You wouldn’t like it, Walt. Too sour.

(WALT shrugs and goes back to his meat. Mom raises her glass.)

MOM

To new friends

(WALT taps on her arm.)

MOM

Walt wants to say something. Let me get a keyboard.

(MOM gets up and returns a moment later with the keyboard.)

WALT

(types)

To new horizons and steak. 

(They all laugh.)

CURTAIN

ACT V

Scene 3

SETTING: LIVING ROOM LATER THAT NIGHT

AT RISE: MOM is cleaning up. 

(Finishing, MOM picks up the letter she found at the gate earlier.)

MOM 

(reads the letter aloud)

Estimada Senhora Smith, 

This letter is to inform you that Casa das Flores is to be placed up for sale. Your rental agreement specifies that in the case of a sale, you have the right to make the first offer. If you choose not to exercise this right, you may remain on the premises until any promissory note is issued. 

Please be advised that you have seven working days to respond. 

Best regards, 

Silver Coast Real Estate

(MOM starts to cry. Walt comes into the room.)

MOM

Walt, we need to talk.

(WALT  looks concerned. He begins to tap his hands.)

MOM

What would you think about us moving here - permanently?

(MOM goes to get the keyboard. She returns and places it in front of Walt.)

WALT

(types)

I vote yes! (Walt stops like he is suddenly thinking about something)

What about Dad?

MOM

Don’t worry; let us old people figure it out.

WALT

I worry about you, Mom. You need to start thinking more about yourself. I don’t need you to protect me anymore.

MOM

I know you don’t need me like that anymore, Walt. You have changed, and I need to change, too. 

(MOM & WALT hug awkwardly.)

Knocking at the door

(MOM opens the door. DAD is standing at the door with his luggage).

DAD

Hi

(WALT starts to bounce up and down.)

DAD

Hey, big guy.

(WALT runs over to him. They side hug. Mom is still stunned and unmoving.)

DAD

I missed you guys so much!

MOM

How? Why didn’t you tell us you were coming? 

DAD

I just realized that I needed to be here. I bought my ticket yesterday.

MOM

What about work?

DAD

I quit. They’ll find someone to replace me. I’m not passing up the opportunity to make some memories with you guys. I don’t want to be replaced here. 

(WALT taps MOM for the keyboard.) 

MOM

Go get it. You are your own man now.

(WALT retrieves the keyboard from across the room.)

WALT

Dad, we’re happy to have you here, but you need to know that things are different here. Mom and I are different. We don’t need a protector anymore.

(DAD is stunned and a little hurt. He pulls away. He walks around for a minute, then comes back. He looks at WALT.)

DAD

What about as a dad? 

(WALT smiles, and MOM hugs DAD effusively.)

Crashing sound

ENTERS STAGE LEFT, PRINCIPE (Running across the stage)

EXIT STAGE RIGHT, PRINCIPE

DAD

Walt; maybe you should check out what’s going on.

(WALT smiles broadly. WALT leaves, and MOM and DAD are alone.)

MOM

Do you really mean it? Can you make the change to be an observer with Walt and not try to take over? I mean, are you okay with watching him struggle on his own? It’s hard. I know from experience. 

DAD

I will try my best. I want to be a part of this new beginning. 

(MOM and DAD hug. Walt comes rushing back. He has dirt all over his shirt and messy hair.)

DAD

Walt.

(MOM tenses up, thinking that DAD is going to lecture.)

DAD

I like your new look. 

(MOM  looks relieved.)

DAD

What was all the fuss outside, Walt?

(WALT motions for the keyboard. MOM gives it to DAD, who holds it for WALT)

WALT

(types)

Principe got into Frau Angerman’s trash can again. She chased him up the whole street, leaving a trail of garbage. But Principe got away by digging under the General’s fence. The General is going to be so pissed.

MOM

Oh no! Senhora Neves will be distraught. 

WALT

I wouldn’t worry too much about it. They will work it out.

MOM

Do you know something that I don’t, Walter?

(WALT just turns away.)

DAD

Sounds like I have a lot of catching up to do. Hey Walt, let’s go for a walk. You can fill me in.

(WALT smiles and heads for the door. DAD turns to MOM, smiles, and heads after WALT. MOM stands at the door waving bye. Once they are gone, she returns to the sofa.) 

MOM 

Umph. My baby is moving on. Maybe I’ll take up doing yoga. If Principe can do it, surely I can manage. Or perhaps I’ll start a garden- cultivate my own story.

CURTAIN

THE END