WAYWORN HOME by Petra Michelle

 

FADE IN:

EXT. LOG CABIN. MID-1800s - DAY

A YOUNG COWBOY rides up to a modest log cabin set on a farm. As he climbs down from his horse, a woman observing him through a shotgun, steps onto the porch.

WOMAN What can I do for you?

 

JAKE  Well, ma'am, I was wondering if you could use any help around the farm. Mrs. Johnson sent me.

The woman studies his thin frame and handsome, but pale face.

JAKE I notice the roof needs mending.

WOMAN Have you had anything to eat today?

JAKE No, ma'am, not yet.

She gestures he enter the cabin.

INT. KITCHEN. CABIN - DAY

Coffee and the frying of chicken permeates the kitchen, biscuits siting on the center of the table. Jake glances around the cabin's humble surroundings, then settles on a photo.

WOMAN Sit down, son.

When he sits, awkward silences are exchanged between them. Margaret sets a plate of fried chicken, biscuits, and a cup of coffee before him.

MARGARET What's your name, son?

JAKE Jake, Jake Hadden.

Margaret's eyes widen. She stumbles. Jake quickly assists her to a chair.

JAKE Are you all right, maw?

Gazing at him questioningly, she notices a pendant around his neck.

MARGARET Paw gave you that pendant, didn't he?

JAKE Just before he died.

MARGARET Died?

She turns to hide her tears.

MARGARET I gave it to him years ago when...

As he reaches for her hand,

MARGARET I should never have left you, Jake. Can you forgive me?

JAKE I forgive you, maw. 

MARGARET And give us another chance?

JAKE And give us another chance.

As they embrace,

MARGARET (in a whisper) Thank you, son. 

Loretta Young in film, Rachel and The Stranger.