When Time Got Louder (2022) - full transcript

Dad, come on.
Kay and I are ready.

Okay. I'm coming.
Let's go see what Santa...

Come on, honey.
Come on.

Okay.

Okay.

All right, here we go.

Well merry Christmas, mom.

Merry Christmas.

Hey, what the heck are...

Okay honey, it's been
15 minutes.

-Are these presents?
-Let's just get right to it.



Okay, okay.

Hey guys.

All right. Say hi Abbie!
Hi Kayden!

Dad, dad, look at
the presents Santa left us.

Can I open one now?

Wow.

Woah bud. Wait, wait.

Did you want to hold
the camera?

Can I try, dad?

Yeah. Here you go.
Be careful.

Wait, Kayden!

Why are you asking us
these questions!!

My son clearly did
nothing wrong.

Mr. Peterson, please. I also
want what's best for Kayden.



I, I still, I still don't
understand why

we need to do this right now.

We need to provide an evaluation
to the police

as soon as possible.

As Kayden is still 17,

it's important that I speak
with both of you

so I get a better sense...

No, but listen.

He's going to wake up and he is
not going to know where he is,

and he is, he is not going
to understand.

He will be so scared.

Please.

I need to be there
when he wakes up, Mark.

I need to be there
when he wakes up.

I need to be there
when he wakes up!

Okay.

Abbie?

Sorry, what was the question?

How often did your father work
those weekend shifts?

Why does that matter?

Abbie, all of my questions
are to help me

get a better sense of your
family's situation.

As you're not Kayden's
legal guardian

you don't have to speak with me
if you don't want to.

No. I want to answer your
questions to help my family.

I just wasn't expecting you
to be passing judgement on...

No one here is being judged.

My dad rarely worked
weekends.

We spent tons of time together
as a family.

In no way did that
impact Kayden.

Is that the real question?

Will anything I say here
even matter?

Of course.

Your parents spoke a great deal

about how you're a major part of
your brother's life.

What I'm trying to understand is
how in the last few months,

in light of your absence,

how it may have impacted Kayden
as to where he is today.

So, you think this is my fault?

Not at all.

But you're sitting here
asking us questions

like we did something wrong.

I'm just trying to under...

Like something we did
could've changed it.

I'm hoping to understand how
this incident happened today

so that we can help him.

Can I go to the bathroom?

Hello?

Abbie, are you there?

You were calling me?

I've been trying
to get a hold of you.

You were starting
to worry me.

I'm sorry, it's just not
a good time right now.

Abbie, I just want
to talk. Please.

How are you?

I miss you.

Abbie?

I'm sorry, it's just really
not a good time right now.

Abbie what's going on?

You can tell me.

Are you okay?

Yup.

I'm fine.

I'm sorry. I gotta go.

Mom's calling me.

Abbie wait!

Sorry.

Kayden was diagnosed
when he was three.

Abbie was five.

They've always been
best friends,

ever since the day
she first held him.

That's wonderful.

In many of my cases
the sibling dynamic

can be quite challenging.

They always had
a special bond

over art, drawing, painting,

whatever they could get
their hands on.

That's what Abbie went to school
for in California.

This is incredible.

Oh Abbie, we're so proud.

Full ride. What exactly
does that mean?

Full ride.

It means my tuition
is paid for.

Okay, mom...

Tuition's paid for, but not
books or housing probably.

Books are expensive,
housing...

California's not cheap.

I'm just saying.

Yeah, but California
design academy

has one of the top programs
in animation.

It's basically the Harvard
of arts.

Well Harvard is also
very expensive.

Okay.

We can make it work.
We'll make it work.

Yeah.

We'll make it work.

Good job, kiddo.

Hey Kay.

What you doing?

Ooh. A sea lion.

Why a sea lion?

Hey, you want to see
something funny?

This is funny.

It is funny. Good job.

Your drawings are the best, Kay.
Seriously.

We're going to make an awesome
TV show one day.

But I have to go away for a bit
to make that happen.

I have to...
Go to school for it.

You know, like how you go
to school?

I love you so much.
You know that, right?

Make his nose a bit smaller.

He's starting to look
like grandpa.

Mark?

What's wrong?

I don't know.
I'm just worried.

About Abbie?

Or Kayden?

Both.

This is a big change.

Yeah.

It's not ideal.

But this is what we wanted,
right?

This is what we worked
so hard for.

For Abbie to have her own life?

Of course. Of course.

But this is all Kayden knows.

And now he's going
to be alone?

I mean, Abbie is the only friend
he's ever had.

Well, he is capable of adapting.

And I'll be able to spend
more time with him.

And what are you going to be
doing after school now?

The same thing I did
when she was a kid.

Take it one day at a time.

You know, I really think
that it's time

that we talked about
assisted living.

What?

You're something else,
you know that?

Tish!

Assisted living?!

Look, this, it's an option
that we haven't explored.

Hell, we haven't even
talked about it!

Because we don't need to!

Yet!

We don't need to... yet!

No. I'm not...

No, Mark.

I'm not talking about this
with you.

I'm not talking
about this tonight.

I'm sorry, okay?

But today was a big
wake - up call.

This discussion is over.

We always knew Abbie
was going to leave

and we always knew he was going
to have this problem.

I just didn't think it was going
to happen this sudden.

You and I both know he's not
going to understand.

How many hours a week did
Abbie look after Kayden

when she was home?

Hard to say.

I mean, Abbie would hang out
with Kayden

while I ran errands or did
things around the house.

Weekend outings were always
as a family.

Abbie always wanted to spend
time with Kayden.

That's quite the commitment
for a young girl.

She's quite the girl.

Can you tell me more about
the transition?

Abbie leaving home?

Well, it was hard on all of us.

Technology helps, I guess.

Now let me see.

Oh, yes.

Thanks. It's not much
of a tail.

But I'm sort of attached
to it.

Eeyore, I have got an idea.

Hey, eeyore's in my spot.

Stupid thing's broken.

What's wrong?

Well, I'm trying to set up
the face time

so we can all
video chat together.

It's face time,
not "the face time."

Kayden, pass this to your
sister, please.

Kayden, pass it.

Kayden got it.

Huh.

Thank goodness I have
you to take care of me.

Abbie, I can see my face.

I don't want to face time
with my face.

Yeah, you, you have to
face time me if you wanna...

Oh good, let's do it.

What's your phone number?

Nope. I know.

Hold on. Okay, and go.

Kayden, look who's here.

Abbie.

Hey buddy. Ready to go?

I hear someone's going
to California.

Your mom could not
stop raving

when she was here.

Yeah, I'm pretty excited.

We'll sure miss seeing you here
every day after school.

I think it's Kayden's favourite
part of the day.

You want your headphones
for the hall?

Kayden, what did I say
yesterday?

It's too loud.

Seatbelt.

Kayden, I don't have time
for this.

I have to go home and pack.

Kayden.

Please?

Not on our last day.

Stop!

Ready?

-Five...
-Five.

-Four.
-Four.

-Three.
-Three.

-Two.
-Two.

-One.
-One.

Thank you.

Tigger, I'd be happy to tell
you my secret for winning at...

You would.

Mom, have you seen
my sketchbook?

She's upstairs.

I like winnie the pooh.

Nice.

I like winnie the pooh, too.

Who's your favourite?

Eeyore.

You know, the only reason
that he is your favourite

is because your sister used
to carry eeyore everywhere.

You all packed?

Yep.

You didn't over pack though,
right?

Because they will charge you
if your bag's overweight.

No, it's barely even full.

Good.

Well, make sure you text us
when you land,

and when you get to your dorm,
you know where it is on campus?

I think so.

I've been talking
to my roommate, Jen.

She explained it to me.
She seems really nice.

Kayden?

Give this to Abbie.

Mom, no!

You said "no presents, mom."
But it's not every day

that your baby girl's going off
to California, so...

Mark.

Wow Kayden, did you
write this?

It's awesome printing.

I had to steal your book so
I could tape his drawings in.

We thought it would be nice for
you to have it with you always.

Thank you.

You have your phone?

Yep.

And all the numbers
are programmed in?

Yep.

Okay, so text when
you get through security,

and then text before
the plane takes off.

And then when you get there
you should...

Get in the first person's
Van that offers me a ride?

Mom, relax.

Well, you know, it may be hard
to say no if they offer me candy.

Abbie.

Just kidding mom.

All right, well...

Work hard and stay safe.

I can do that.

I love you so much.

Will you please come back
to us even after you're famous?

I'm only going to be gone
for four months.

You'll barely notice.

No. Ah, bud, remember.

Dad said that Abbie is going on
the airplane,

and she's going to school.

But she'll be back
to see you soon.

We'll Mark it off on the
calendar on the fridge, okay?

I will go on airplane.

Just Abbie's getting on
the plane today buddy.

But I'll be home
before you know it.

I'll be home soon, okay?

Just make sure you send me
lots of pictures.

Oh no! Not now, okay?

It's time to go, kiddo.

Love you guys.

I will go on airplane. Abbie.

Come on, bud.

Flight 262 service
to Los Angeles

is now inviting passengers,
to board...

Hey, you must be Abbie.

Jen.

Hey.

Nice to finally meet you.

Nice pictures.

Damn, you came prepared.

Well, my mom used to be
an interior designer,

so, I guess, I got that gene.

Is that Kayden?

Yep.

Oh, so cute.

Okay so, my friend, Robbie,
that I was telling you about

I guess knows this guy, Brooke,

and they're throwing
this insane party

for the beginning of the
semester, they invited me,

it's on Friday if you want
to come.

Uh, I don't know.
I'm going to have to see.

Oh. Did I phrase
that as a question?

Because it's actually
not optional.

Okay, fine.

I'll go.

Cool. Yes, you will.

All right.

When did you move here
from blue water?

I don't know, 2002?

And the reason
for the move?

Work.

I'm a construction foreman.

I imagine it's very long hours
in construction.

I manage just fine.

How long have the two of you
been together?

Twenty-four years. Can I have
a tissue, please?

I'm sorry.

Could we please do this later?

I would really like to be there
when he wakes up.

I know this is hard.

No.

Hard doesn't even
begin to cover it.

I know that you think that
you understand but you don't.

It's, it's...

Nothing prepares you for it.

You, you, you just hit
the ground running.

Abbie. Abbie. Abbie.

Kayden.

Kayden, calm down.

Alright, alright...

Kayden, calm down buddy.

Sweetheart. Kayden.
She's not here.

Abbie! Abbie!

Kayden. Enough.

Enough!

Kayden. Look at me.

I have an idea. Yeah.

Thank you.

That's the last of the eggs.

I'll pick some up on
the way home from work.

Okay.

Hey Kayden.

Do you want anything special
for dinner tomorrow?

Chicken strips.

Chicken strips it is.

Is that good?

Okay, that's enough, bud.

Did Kayden seem to be affected
by Abbie's absence?

Well, I mean, we did
explain to him

that she was going away
to school.

It's hard for him to Gauge
what that time is,

as you can imagine.

Yes, but over the last
few months,

did you notice a change in
his mood or behavior?

I saw in his past charts that
he had some previous incidents

at his high school.

If you're implying that
what happened today

had anything to do
with Abbie's absence

affecting my son's behavior,
you are way off.

I mean, of course we missed her
while she was gone,

but that had nothing to do
with what happened today!

My son did nothing wrong.

Mr. Peterson. I am just trying
to get a better understanding

of Kayden's trajectory over
the past year.

He was fine.

I mean, of course he missed her,
but what do you expect?

Mom, you have to tilt
the camera up.

I can't see you.

What?

Oh.

So, how is your roommate?
Are you getting along?

Uh, yeah. I mean it's only been
a week but she's nice.

Good.

Uh, she invited me to
a party that's tonight.

I don't know if I'll go.

Abbie, Kayden's touching noses
with you.

I should head to class now.

Well, let us know if we can talk
to you tonight.

Kayden put in a special request
for chicken strips.

No fair.

I never get chicken strips.

Okay, I should go.

Okay, um, Kayden, say bye
to Abbie.

Bye! Love you guys.

You okay?

Yeah.

Yeah, it'll be okay.

Abbie. Abbie.

I think I'm going to pull Larry
and his three from that job

after the 4th they can
finish off the molding.

We'll see you at white stone
next week then.

Yeah, sounds good.

Hey uh, how's family?

Good. Abbie's getting settled
in in California.

I mean, 10 grand a semester
room and board.

Can you believe that?

Ooh. Ain't that a mess.

Yeah.

I could use a few extra hours
if you have anything.

Ah, we got the build on Fraser.

As long as you don't tell
Ms. Tish that I'm the one

taking you away on Saturdays.

She's expecting it.
Thanks Henry.

All right. Take care.

Are you serious, Mark?

I'm sorry.

We ended up working late
on site and I must've forgot.

I want chicken strips.

Kayden, stop.

Hungry. Chicken strips.

Great.

Why didn't you just cook him
something else?

I told you I was busy on site.

No. You didn't tell me anything.

I didn't hear anything from you
all day.

That would require you to
actually pick up your phone!

Okay, change your tone.

He's been talking about this
all day.

And we were going to call Abbie.

It's a thing.

Fine, fine. I'll go get some.
It's not that big of a deal.

Abbie!

Forget it.

Kayden? Go upstairs to your room
and draw while mom cooks dinner.

Kayden, please.

Eggs?

No? Great.

Cheese toast it is.

Good movie, huh Kayden?

How about mom makes us
some hot chocolate?

Okay.

Why didn't you just let him
watch a movie like I said?

He needed a break
from electronics.

He was fine.

Doctor Palmer specifically
said "less electronics."

So now we have to start
that tonight?

Well maybe if he wasn't so glued
to his screen

he would be having
a better night.

Tish, that's not why...

No, Mark.

The reason that he's having
a bad night is because his dad

couldn't be bothered to pick up
the fucking chicken strips!

Enough with the fucking
chicken strips!

Hey, Kay.

You want to play a game
on your phone?

Hey Kayden.

I have an idea.

How about we call Abbie?

I will see Abbie.

Okay.

I have to pee.

Oh, my god.
I'm so sorry.

Are you okay?

Karly, come on.

Uh, did you need to go?

Hey, hey, don't be that guy.

Oh, I was just...

Hang up and hang out.

New rule, uh, if you're
not peeing you're dancing.

Let's go. Okay.

Excuse us, thank you.

She's not picking up.

Okay. Well, try her again.

Maybe she's already
gone to bed.

Yeah, we should've
just let him be.

I know. I thought it would
help distract him.

Kayden.

Kayden, calm down.

Kayden.

We're going to have to try
and talk to Abbie tomorrow.

Kayden!

Not a fan of Brooke?

Who?

The guy you just blew off.

This is his house.

Uh, no. Um...

I just didn't feel like dancing.

Oh. That's too bad.

Why?

Um, well I was going to ask you
to dance.

But you don't feel like it.
So it's fine.

I actually really do like
this song.

Kayden!

He's going to hurt himself.

She's not here.

Kayden, sit down.

Kayden, listen to me.

Hey, listen, listen,
listen, listen!

-Five...
-Five.

-Four.
-Four.

-Three.
-Three.

-Two.
-Two.

-One.
-One.

I'll check it before I go
to bed next time, sorry.

Yeah. I'll face time Kayden
after class.

I love you too.

Bye.

I'm guessing you had
a good night.

You know, um, it was almost
as good as yours.

I have no idea what
you're talking about.

Okay. So, a tall sultry woman
doesn't ring any bells.

Karly.

She's a friend of Brooke's.

Okay.

So, when's the first date?

There isn't going to be
a first date.

Really.

It was just a kiss.

Seriously.

Okay, well I am seriously
starving.

So, can we please
get some brunch?

But don't worry.
It's just brunch.

I am hungry.

Great, then get up.
Let's go.

Ow.

-I'm tired though.
-It's mimosa time.

I'm tired. So tired.

That sucks.

Will you pick me out an outfit?

Absolutely not.

I'm so tired.

I will drag you out of bed.
I take spin classes.

I'm very strong.

Just wear that. Let's go.

Up and at 'em.
Let's go, come on.

-Hi tish.
-Hi.

He wouldn't sit with me.

So, did Emily give you
the details?

Just that he gave someone
a push.

Yeah.

Another student reached
for his headphones.

So, my son was being bullied.

We believe it was
a misunderstanding.

Kayden apologized.
Didn't you, Kayden?

Sorry.

Look.

These things happen.

But Mrs. Thompson has her hands
full as it is,

and she just can't manage.

So, maybe you could just
take him home for the day.

Kayden.

Kayden.

Not now, okay?

Kayden, hey.

Let's get you home okay?
Okay?

Kayden?

Let's go home.

It's time to go home bud, okay?

Abbie.

Kayden. Kayden.

Now.

Did you talk to Abbie
this weekend?

Yeah. She seems
a little homesick.

I wish we could have her home
for Thanksgiving.

You know we can't afford that.

Yeah.

Awesome, bud.

Just go grab some pasta
down the aisle.

So, I was thinking that maybe
we could ask the robertsons

to look after Kayden on Sunday.

Just one. Just one.

Thank you, big guy.

Okay, tomato sauce next.

Sauce.

Just down the aisle.

We can go see Greenville.

Greenville?

It's a group home in borrowton.

Maybe we can get
some extra help.

I can ask if there's...

It wouldn't hurt to go look.

One day at a time, right?

Kayden? Kayden?

Kayden?

Kayden?

Kayden?

What else did you do today?

Mom told me that you did
some more drawings today.

Can you show me?

Kayden, can you show me?

Kayden, can you show me?

Okay, bud I gotta go.

But I'll... I'll talk
to you tomorrow, okay?

Love you.

Hey stranger.

Hey. What are you doing here?

I... I part-time ta
for a journalism class.

How you been?

Good. You?

Pretty good.

Except I, I did have a rough
past couple weeks

'cause I met this really
awesome girl

and she never
texted me back.

Yeah, i'm... I'm sorry
about that.

I've just been a little bit
overwhelmed with the first

couple weeks of school and
catching up on assignments.

Did you draw that?

Yeah.

I'm in the animation program.

Shut up. You're so cute.

Oh, I'm cute?

I really am sorry though.

For... not texting you back.

Well, there is a way you could
make it up to me.

Really?

Any plans Friday?

What's that for?

Just going to the beach.

Someone's got a date.

Jen, come on.

Please tell me it's the girl
from the party.

Seriously? Just drop it.

Okay. I think we're

a little past the point of
roommate deception.

It's not like you haven't
seen me coming in

at 3:00 am from Brooke's, so.

Seriously, is it her?

Oh, my god, you really
like her.

Maybe a little.

Yeah.

This is too great!

I'm so excited for you.

Very nice.

Okay. I got this.

Make good choices. Or not.

The latter is more fun.

-Hey.
-Hi.

Hey. Um, I'm Cooper.

You must be the Petersons.

I'm Mark. My wife, tish.

Hi.

I'm actually head of admin,
but they needed an extra hand

on the weekends,
so you got me.

Jackie said you wanted to see
the space?

Yeah.

This is Mark's only day off and
our son is with a family friend.

Got it. Come on in.

So, um, this is
the main floor.

It's mostly common area.

And over here we have
the kitchen...

Woah, woah, woah.

Daniel, Daniel,
please take a seat.

No more coffee until you have
your medication, okay?

Sorry about that.

As I said, short-handed
on the weekends.

Uh, the kitchen
is just this way.

This is the backyard.

We like to engage our residents
in gardening

and other outdoor activities.

Um, I think that woman
needs help?

Oh.

Maggie, not again.

Maggie, Maggie, we don't
pick our scabs.

Okay, I'll be right back.

Oh. That doesn't look good.
Here.

You want a band-aid?
Yeah?

As I said, we're here to help.

So, we'll do anything we can
to accommodate Carl's needs.

Uh, Kayden.

Kayden. Uh, right.

Sorry.

I'll follow up with you both.

There's a lot more
logistical questions

having to do with the health
insurance and whatnot.

Okay.

Next time you can bring
Kayden by

and he can take a look
at the place.

Okay.

Um, it was good meeting you.

Did you ever consider
a group home?

No, because Kayden can
only live in our home.

And how would you describe
your home?

More than just a home.

I mean, for Kayden it's more
than just a roof over his head.

It's his whole world.

Thanks again.

They don't do anything.

They just sit around all day,

and when you get home
they don't even care.

You might as well have a fish.

I'm sorry, but what did cats do
to you

to deserve such animosity?

They didn't.

Dogs are just inherently better.

You can take them for walks,
and you can play with them...

Okay, we're going to have to
agree to disagree on this one.

So, do you want food now
or food later?

Wow.

And whoever said chivalry
is dead?

Hey, food is the foundation
of any good date.

So, it's food now or food later.
It's that simple.

So, this is a date?

Do you kiss a lot of girls
at parties?

No.

Then it's a date.

Is there enough?

I think so.

So, uh, what brought you
down to la?

The program.

I like their animation track.

There's nothing really like it
back home.

And what's home like?

Uh, you know.
The usual.

Overworked dad,
overstressed mom,

and my brother is in his
last year of high school.

Oh, nice.

Does he know what colleges
he's applying to?

Uh, actually, I'm not sure.

So, what was it like
growing up in la?

It's all I know.

It was just me and my mom.

My dad left when I was 7,
came out when I was 14,

she threw me a party.

That's a good mom.

Yeah. I'm lucky.

My friends were all so cool
about it.

I even brought a girl to prom.

So, what about you?

Any ex-girlfriends I need to
worry about stealing you away?

No, definitely not.

I mean, I've, I've been
with a few girls before.

But nothing serious enough
to call a girlfriend.

So no, you have nothing
to worry about.

So, how long did you and that ex
from prom go out for?

About a year and a half.

When we graduated she got into
this college in New York

and she broke up with me

because she didn't want to do
long distance.

I'm sorry.

Don't be.

Look where I am now.

What was that for?

Oh, you got a little something
right here?

Oh, oh yeah?

You have a little something.

Yeah? Yeah where?

Right here.

Well, well, well.

What do we have here,
miss "this isn't a date?"

Very funny.

Uh, Jen, this is Karly.

Hi.

Well don't mind me, lovebirds.

Uh, I'm just going to go meet
Robbie at the campus center.

I just have to change clothes.
I'll only be a few minutes.

I should probably take this.

Okay.

Hi mom.

Hi sweetie.

Sorry, I missed your call
last night.

That much homework,
even on the weekends?

Yup.

Oh.

We're really proud of you.

Thanks, mom.

We're really, really proud
of you.

So, what's up?

Oh, not much.

Just tidying around
the house.

Kayden went to see a movie
over at the robertsons.

Oh, that's nice.
Did he have fun?

I'm not sure, I think so.

Your dad and I didn't stay.

We went to tour Greenville,
a group home.

I, I don't see him there.

But we thought it was best to
at least do the research.

Did you call just
to tell me this?

I just...

You don't bring up care homes
our entire lives

and then I'm gone for what,
like two months,

and you start shopping for a
place to send Kayden off to?

Sweetheart, no.

Abbie, this has nothing
to do with you.

Kayden is almost 18 and he is...

How can you say it has nothing
to do with me?

Abbie please, you know,
you have always...

I can't do this right now, mom.
I gotta go.

Abbie? Abbie?

Mom, dad said that
Kayden and I

could paint our coloring books
after the movie.

But now he's saying
Kayden's going to bed.

Well, he's probably going to bed
because he's really tired.

Do you want me to paint
with you?

No, it's okay. I'll wait
for Kayden tomorrow.

Okay.

What's wrong, mummy?

Come here.

Do you remember when we talked
to Kayden's doctor?

Yeah, when you thought Kayden
was sick.

Is Kayden sick again?

No honey. He's not sick.

Kayden has a special thing
called autism.

It means that sometimes
it's going to be harder for him

to do things like school
or chores,

and sometimes he's not always
going to be able

to tell us what he needs
or wants,

so we're going to have to pay
extra special attention to him.

What it really means is that
he is going to need

a lot of extra love
from his big sister.

I can do that.

I know you can.

You are the best big sister
there is.

And sometimes mommy and daddy
will need your help,

and Kayden will need
your help too.

In school Mrs. Mitchell
was telling us about

the special parts in our body
that help us live.

This is my heart, my lungs,
my stomach and my two kidneys.

You are so smart.

What if I gave Kayden
my kidney.

Would that help make
Kayden better?

You know sweetheart,
I think that,

that's not going to, that's
not going to help with this.

What...

What Kayden needs
from you is a lot...

...of love and hugs
like you already do.

Okay?

He's pretty dependent on me
and my family,

he won't be going to college.

We actually don't really know
what he's going to do

after high school.

There aren't many options
for him.

Why didn't you tell me?

I don't know,

I guess it's kind of a lot
of background

to share on a first date.

Wait... we were on a date?

But seriously, I'm really glad
you told me.

My mom told me they went to
visit a group home yesterday.

They're insistent that I don't
have to be his caretaker

when I'm older even though
I've always said I want to.

They think it's going
to ruin my life,

so now that I'm gone
they've already started

looking at options as if
I'm no longer an option.

Sounds like your parents
just want you to be happy.

Yeah.

I know it's tough for them.

When my brother was
first diagnosed,

the doctor told my parents to...

Go home and love
your other child.

Can you imagine that?

Because they just assumed
that he would have no future.

See, that was a lot.
This is why I should...

Abbie. I'm really happy
you told me.

I mean, you must be close
with your parents.

Yeah, I'd say so.

Have you come out
to them yet?

No.

I want to, though.

I just don't think it's
the right time yet.

So what kind of stuff
does Kayden like to do?

He is the most amazing artist.

More inventive than me, really.

Not bound by any rules or styles
like they teach here.

We love to draw together.

We're going to make
a TV series one day.

Were you and Kayden always
this close?

Always.

Some siblings struggle
to connect at a young age.

Did you ever find it difficult?

No.

It just always worked.

Hello.

Does Kayden have his phone?

I just tried face-timing him.

No. He forgot it at school.
Do you want me to grab him?

Yeah, okay. Sure.

Hold on. Kay!

Hey bud.
How's it going?

How was school?

Good.

Did you make some art today?

Did you make some art today?

Okay bud, I should go.

But I'll talk to you later,
okay?

I love you.

Hey.

Why didn't you guys go
to the school to get it?

I don't know, I didn't
have time.

I'll grab it Monday.

Well, Kayden needs his phone
so him and I can talk.

It's not the same
without face time.

Abbie, I don't know what you
want me to say.

Do you want me to grab him?
He can use my phone?

Dad, you don't get it.

My brother and I need to be able
to talk.

He needs his phone.

Okay, Abbie.

No one gets it more than I do.

But I can't just
drop everything.

How are you?

Good. You?

What's wrong?

Nothing, um...

Just... just really
missing my brother.

I'm sorry, babe.

I just feel so guilty
being here.

Well, being here helped you
meet me.

And we all know
that's the highlight

of your university experience.

I really like you, Abbie.

I really like you too.

I hope so, because that
would've been really awkward.

Kayden, hold out your hand.

Okay, one, two, three.

That's how much it costs
for one bus ride.

Three dollars.

So, you're going to get
on the bus,

you're going to put that
in the slot,

you're going to take your seat,

and you're going to get off
at the grocery store.

Like we did before, remember?

You remember what the bus stop
looked like,

the big grocery store
with the donuts you love?

Dad. Bus.

No, no, no. Kayden.

Dad's, dad's going
to follow the bus.

This is just for practice

for you to be able
to do it by yourself.

I will ride the bus.

Yes. Kay, you will ride the bus.

Look, everything's going
to be okay.

Dad's going to be right
behind you.

Hey kid.

Kayden!

Kayden.

The money.

Your headphones!

In your backpack.

Well, we should probably
be productive today.

It is already 4:00.

I would say this
is very productive.

You want to study?

Hmm.

Gym?

Can I ask you a question?

Mm-hmm.

Have you mentioned me
to them yet?

Not yet.

Is it because I'm a girl?

My dad would be intense,

regardless if you're a guy
or a girl.

So, you're just not going
to tell them?

I just thought that maybe
since we're more serious

that you'd want them to know.

I do.

I want to.

It's just with everything
going on with Kayden,

I don't want to put more
on their plate.

I'll tell them when the timing
is right though.

I promise.

Hey.

I'm not going anywhere

if that's what you're
worried about, okay?

Okay.

I say we go get cupcakes
and go for a walk.

Oh, so you went from the gym
to cupcakes.

Yeah. Or donuts.

We have options.

Okay, hold on. Hold on bud.

Do you have the card I gave you?

Okay good. So, this is an atm.

Now what you're going to do
is you're going to

put the card into the machine,
follow the instructions,

and you're going
to get out cash.

Here we go.

Please insert your card
to begin.

Hello.

Kayden, it can't talk to you.
It's just waiting for your card.

Hi.

Hey.

So, I'm looking into flights.

We better move quick here
before the prices move up.

Uh, I've got December 17th.

I have my last final
the day before.

Can I get a couple days to say
goodbye to my friends?

Okay.

How about, how about
December 20th?

Your friends allow you
to leave then?

Yeah. Thanks.

Are you happy with how
the first semester went?

Yeah, it's been good.

Good group down there?

I wouldn't call it a group,
but yeah, some friends.

Any boys?

No, dad.

I'm just curious,
you know.

Wondering why you needed
the extra days.

Hey, I just wanted to say sorry

for getting upset with you
the other day.

It's just been tough
being away from Kayden.

I understand, kiddo.
It's okay.

All right. I got your itinerary.
I'll send it to you.

Thanks, dad.

All right. See you soon.

Bye.

So, the winning assignment
gets to shadow professor watts

for a weekend.

I mean, there's a lot
of competition,

but, I think, I have a chance.

What are you going to do?

I have an idea I've started
sketching, but...

Hey babe.

Is that Jen?
Oh, it's Abbie's mom, hi.

Abbie's told me so much
about you.

Uh, no.

No mom. This is Karly.
She's a... friend from class.

I don't think I've mentioned
her before.

Hi Karly.

Abbie's been telling me
all about your class.

Nice to meet you,
Mrs. Peterson.

Okay mom. We should probably
start studying.

I'll talk to you tomorrow, okay?
Say hi to Kayden for me.

Okay. Talk to you
tomorrow.

How are you?
How was class?

Which class?

My journalism class
or our animation class?

I'm sorry.

Just with Kayden struggling
with me being gone

and my dad taking an extra
shift, I just...

I didn't want to...

Tell them about me?

No, put more stress
on my mom's plate.

Didn't realize I was
that stressful.

No.

I'm just saying that the idea
of us might be stressful.

I don't...

I don't know how they'll feel
about it.

Yeah, well I don't know how I
feel about it anymore either.

I'm sorry.

I'm sorry.

I... I just don't think it's
the right time yet.

It's not the same for me
as it was for you, okay?

It's not that simple.

I just thought we were
more serious than this.

But, I guess, I was wrong.

We are.

You should want people
to know we're together.

You should be proud of me.

I am proud of you.

Oh, yeah?

Well, it doesn't show.

Me walking in on a call with you
and your mom is the perfect time

for you to be like, "hey mom,
this is my girlfriend."

No, it's not the perfect time!

You don't understand anything
that my family goes through.

You never will.

So, then what, you just
never tell them about me?

What about when you're done
with school?

Then what?

I don't know.

It depends...

It depends on if you're going
to stay or not.

Stop. You know exactly
why I would have to go home.

So, was I just like a fun
little experiment to you?

How convenient.

You know that's not true.

Well maybe it'd be more
convenient for you

if we never met in
the first place.

Hey, you don't mean that.

You don't mean that.

Yeah, I can't do this, Abbie.

Karly, please don't,
please don't.

Please don't go.

No, I really can't.

No.

Fuck!

Kayden?

Kayden? Kayden.
Stop.

Stand over there.

Hey. It's okay.

It's okay, buddy.

Kayden. It's okay.

Kayden, stop.

Mom's got it.

Kayden. Sit now.

Kayden!

Mark. I've got it.

There's eeyore.

It's okay, sweetie.

How am I supposed
to function

for the next three weeks
without you?

Well, you survived for
the past 20 years,

so I'm sure three weeks
will be fine.

Hmm. We'll see.

Also, how did you get stuck
with me instead of your girl

taking you to the airport?

I didn't ask her to.

I think we might be done.

Shit, I'm sorry.

Does she know
you're leaving today?

Well she knows I'm going home
for Christmas,

but I don't think so.

Well, her loss.

We'll find you a cutie
in the spring.

Hey Kay.

Wow.

That looks great.

How's it going, buddy?

Hey, can you flip the camera
back to your face, buddy?

Mom, dad, can you help Kayden
flip the camera back?

Hey, so guess what?

Abbie is getting on a plane
to come home and see you.

Chicken strips.

Sure, we can have chicken
strips.

Abbie.

All right. I gotta get
on the plane,

but I can't wait to see you.

I love you.

Hey. So, have you boarded yet?

Yeah, I'm about to.

Thanks for helping with Kayden.

With what?

Our face time call.

What call?

Our face time call?
Weren't you in the room?

No.

Hold on.

Hey tish, were you in
Kayden's room

when he was talking to Abbie?

No. Why?

No. No one was in his room, why?

We just had a great
conversation.

Best one we've had in
a long time.

Felt normal, like
we were together.

That's really great.

Mark, can you come up
here please?

Hey kiddo.
Your mom's calling.

Why don't you text me
when you're on the plane?

Okay. Talk to you soon.

Love you. Bye.

Mark, why didn't you wait?

Pick up. Abbie. Airport.

That's right, bud.
Today's the day.

What do you think we should do
for dinner tonight, Kay?

Chicken strips.

Well, I think Abbie would be
happy with that too.

I will ride the bus.

Chicken strips. Abbie.

I will ride the bus.
Chicken strips. Abbie.

-Oh, really, bud?
-No, sweetie.

Hey now.

Hey now what?

We've been working on this
for a while.

And the store's just
a few stops down.

No, Mark.

This is a big deal,
him initiating it.

No.

Look, I'll follow the bus.

Mark.

I'll follow the bus.

Mark, no.

I'll follow the bus.

Hey bud. Tell you what.

Why don't I give you
some money

and you can buy Abbie
some chicken strips?

I will ride the bus,
chicken strips, Abbie.

Very smart, kiddo.

All right, go up and grab
your jacket and your wallet.

You are really pushing
it today.

He had another meltdown
just yesterday,

he's having more and more
problems at school,

and now you're letting him ride
the bus?

I'll be right behind him, tish.

No Mark, it's...

Let's go, bud!

I will ride the bus.

Good job. So just like you did
before with dad, okay?

Three!

That's right, $3.
You got it, bud.

Now I'm going to be right behind
the bus

and I'll meet you at the store.

Kayden, slow.

And you have your headphones
in your backpack, okay?

All right, you better
get going.

I'll see you at the store.

Oh hey. Why don't we get Abbie
some donuts?

What do you say?

I will see Abbie.

Abbie is going to be
so proud of you.

Abbie!

Excuse me, your bag?

Hey, could you move your bag?

Dude.

Calm down, buddy.

What's that you got there?

What, you just come from a
construction site or something?

Or is the bus too loud
for you?

Hey, I'm talking to you, man.
What's your problem?

What's your problem?!

Hey! Settle down back there.

Hey listen to me when
I'm talking to you, man.

Why don't you take those stupid
things off your head

and talk to us, man?

Hey dispatch...

Hey, stop!

Sir...

Sir, calm down!

Please stop!

Stop that!

Sit down!

Where is he?

He's in surgery.

All right.

Hey.

Your, your mom just got here.
I've got to go back to her.

Some social worker's asking
us questions.

What? Why?

Just grab a seat.

No!

I'm going to come with you.

Come here. Come here.

It's going to be okay.
I promise.

Just let me help, dad.

Abbie.

Just let your mom and I talk
to her first,

maybe you can talk to her later.

All right? Just grab a seat.

I can see that you love and care
for your son.

But due to your situation
and his previous reports,

I am concerned that you are not
able to manage Kayden's needs

at this time.

What does that mean?

Well, Mrs. Peterson's sole
supervision during the day

of Kayden puts both her
and him at risk.

And after today's incident,
I have concerns.

I think that a supervised care
facility would be a better fit

for Kayden's current needs
and your home situation.

I'll give you some information,

and then you can look it over
and conduct your own research.

I'll touch base
with you both

once you've had some time
to discuss this.

But if she'd like, I would like
to speak to your daughter.

He's a good boy.

We're here to help you find
a safe solution for Kayden.

No, we make it work.

Autism isn't easy, but we,
we make it work.

I understand.

No, no.

I don't think that you do.

If you understood,

you would never suggest
what you're suggesting.

He... he is my baby.

We, we make it work.

We make it work. He is my baby.

He is my baby.

You can't take him out
of our home.

You can't take him away
from us.

He's my baby. He's my baby.

He's my baby.

My daughter, her name
was Jackie.

She was seven
when she passed.

She had cerebral palsy.

So, I want you to know, tish,
that I do understand

what you're going through.

That's why I got into this work.

I'm sorry.

Please give this some thought.

I think that's all I need
from you, Abbie.

Thank you.

What's going to happen
to my brother?

We'll help assess the care
that your brother needs,

I've given your parents
some suggestions

and we're here to help.

We're the best care for him.

I don't know what my parents
have told you,

but I'm coming home to take care
of Kayden.

He'll be staying with us.

I appreciate your concerns
Abbie,

but right now we're trying
to find a solution.

We need solutions
for a lot of things.

Programs for Kayden,
employment opportunities.

We need for people
to not give up on him.

He's just a smart,
talented kid,

and he deserves opportunities
just like anyone else does.

No one is ever going to be there
for him more than me.

You okay?

No.

You?

No.

Peterson family?

You can see Kayden now.
He's waking up.

It shouldn't be much longer.
I'll check in with the doctor.

Let me go and grab his discharge
instructions

to go over with you, okay?

Thank you.

You okay, dad?

I failed him.

Dad, don't say that.

I was right there.

I was right behind
the damn thing.

How you doing, buddy?

Sore? Come here.

Shh. Shh.

It's gonna get better, okay?
I promise.

Shh.

Shhh. It's okay. It's okay.

Shh.

It's okay. It's okay.

It's okay.

It's okay. It's okay.

It's okay. It's okay.
It's okay.

I promise it's going
to be okay.

Shh.

I love you.

What are you doing?

A little research.

On?

Additional care that we can get
for Kayden.

Can we afford that?

We'll see.

I never should've left.

None of this would've happened
if I just...

Abbie, don't.

It was selfish to leave.

Don't put what is happening
to Kayden on yourself.

How can I not?

Because teaching him to adapt
to the world

was always going to happen.

It's not your fault that
the world can't adapt to him.

But if, if I come home we
can go back to our routine.

Mom can go to work, I can go
to the art store,

and then maybe...

And then what, that's your
solution for the next year?

Then what?

Do you really think
you're helping Kayden

by going back to work at that,

that art store for the next
10 years?

You worked hard.

You got into a good school.

So, stick with it and have
a good career.

That is how you will help
your brother.

I don't want to hear anything

about you giving up
and coming home.

Your mother and I did not raise
you and your brother

to give up when things
got tough.

Okay.

Okay then.

We'll just...

We'll take it one day at a time.

Wow, you've taken over breakfast
duty since I've been gone?

That's concerning.

Why aren't you at work?

Well, I took the day off.

For the next little while
actually.

The social worker said her main
concern was

for your mom's safety to care
for Kayden.

So, until we come up with
a more long-term solution

I will be staying here
with Kayden

and your mom will be going back
to her work for a while.

I could get a part-time job down
in la.

There's a coffee shop
in my building. Help out.

Pay for books and stuff.

Well, cheers to that.

These clients have been looking
to switch designers for weeks.

They keep asking me
for referrals.

I can't wait to tell them
you're back at it.

Thank you.

Mary, I really appreciate you
helping me out so last minute.

Hey you good, bud?

Good.

Hello?

Hi.

You know who this is?

Yeah.

Okay good.

I... I just wanted
to make sure

you didn't forget
about me already.

Or delete my number.

Or confuse me for
your other girlfriend.

No. My other girlfriend's
calling later.

I wanted to say
I'm really sorry.

I shouldn't have gotten upset
with you

and I shouldn't have made it
about me.

I didn't mean to push you away.

I'm a bit of a shithead, huh?

I'm not sure what else
I can do,

but I hope that one day you can
forgive me.

I think I can do that.

Really?

Yeah.

I'm glad you called actually.

I've been thinking about you
a lot lately.

I'm sorry I led you to believe
that I was going

to tell them when I wasn't
ready yet.

Anyways, we're about to go
grocery shopping

for Christmas dinner.

Can we talk later?

Are you at your mom's now?

Uh, no problem. Yeah.
I... I am.

So, you'll be back in January?

Yeah. I have to look
for a job and stuff,

but I'll be around.

So... does that mean I'll see
you soon?

Yeah, you, you will.

Okay, good.

See you later, shithead.

We're going to have to work on
some new nicknames

when you get back.

Oh, I don't know, it's got
a bit of a ring to it.

I'll talk to you soon.

Good shower?

Good!

I was just on the phone
with this girl... Karly.

I like her a lot.

I think she'd like you too.

She'd love to see your drawings.

Thanks for listening.

Okay. Merry Christmas,
Kayden.

You can go first.

Abbie, do you want
to help your brother?

Want me to help you
Kayden?

Wow, eeyore. Can Kayden
and I share this?

Of course.

Merry Christmas, Kayden.

Merry Christmas, Kayden.

Merry Christmas, Abbie.