Row

MELVIN (A ONE ARMED BOY)

I've just had the worst day!

Melvin walks in the door of his house his backpack still on from school even though it's early evening. Melvin's father and imposing man walks in.

MELVIN'S FATHER

What do you think you're doing coming home so late??
Melvin glares at his father

MELVIN

I had to work late. One of the guys couldn't make it so I had to fill in.

MELVIN'S FATHER

Is that so? Why do you have that job anyway? Not like you're any use their. I provide for all your needs you ungrateful wretch.

MELVIN

I like my job. Even if I didn't it would still beat spending more time around you.

MELVIN'S FATHER

Your job is more important then your family!? What about your schoolwork!? You come home exhausted and you go to work straight from school! Don't tell me you're doing it at your job or something, because I just had a chat with one of your teachers. Your grades are horrible! What would your mother think?

MELVIN

If mom was here a lot of things would be different! My brother wouldn't of run away. I would have a right arm!

MELVIN'S FATHER

Oh? That's what this is? A desperate attempt to prove that you can function like a normal person? You think you can do these things but you just can't Melvin!

MELVIN

That's it. I'm done with this. With putting up with your crap. You're a miserable old codger and you deserve everything that's ever happened to you. It's no wonder my brother ran away. I'll bet mom died because it was the only way she could get away from you.
Melvin stands in rage glaring at his father, an imposing man. His father looks angrily back.

MELVIN'S FATHER

What do you think you can do without me? You think a weak little one-armed cripple like you can survive on your own?

MELVIN

Good-bye.

Melvin turns around and walks out the door without looking back. His father looks repentant but doesn't say anything to stop him.

MELVIN'S FATHER

I'm sorry Charlotte...I've lost both our boys.