Father Figure

The scene commences with Linda (Krissy Lynn) and her 18-year-old stepdaughter, Sam (Kamryn Jade), sitting together in their living room. A somber ambiance envelops the room as they discuss the recent demise of the family patriarch, who left Linda and Sam in financial ruin. They express gratitude that Uncle Jerry, the deceased's stepbrother, will be moving in with them to provide support. Suddenly, a knock echoes from the door. Linda, steeling herself, takes a deep breath, while Sam reassures her that everything will work itself out. Sam then opens the door, welcoming Jerry (Tommy Gunn) inside. Despite the atmosphere of sorrow, everyone manages to be cordial during their greetings. Sam shows appreciation to Jerry for his willingness to live with them during this difficult time. Jerry, affirming their familial bond, insists that he will assist them through this challenging period. Following a moment of silence, Sam abruptly changes the subject to prevent them from dwelling on their grief. She shows Jerry to his room, and he departs with his baggage. Sam turns to Linda, embracing her. She acknowledges the difficulties that lie ahead but remains confident that they will overcome them together. She praises her father for choosing such an incredible woman to be her stepmother. Linda returns the embrace, managing a thin smile in response to the comforting words, even though smiling still feels like a challenge. "We'll get through this...as a family," asserts Sam confidently. CUT TO TITLE As time passes, Jerry strives to be a reliable support for Linda and Sam. His efforts do not go unnoticed by Sam, who starts developing an attraction towards him. A few weeks later, Sam lies in bed, wrestling with her thoughts. Her restlessness manifests as she tosses and turns and stares blankly at the ceiling. Jerry, passing by her room, notices her distress and asks for permission to enter. Caught off guard, Sam refers to Jerry as 'dad' instead of 'Uncle Jerry'. Jerry freezes at the doorway upon hearing this. Realizing her mistake, Sam feels embarrassed and quickly corrects herself, unable to explain the slip-up. Jerry enters the room and sits beside Sam on the bed. He gently places a hand on hers, asking her if she still misses her father. Sam appears conflicted and hesitant but eventually confesses her complicated feelings for Jerry, seeing him as a paternal figure but also feeling a romantic attraction. Jerry confesses that he has never felt such familial warmth before, and it has transformed his life. He can envision making a permanent home here. However, when he grows somber, Sam quickly pleads with him to stay, promising to sort out her confusing feelings for him. Jerry turns to her, clarifying that his melancholy isn't about her feelings. He admits that he's been conflicted about his own feelings, finding himself attracted not only to Linda but also to Sam. This has clouded his judgment, leaving him desiring to be everything for the family - an uncle, a father, a husband to Linda, and a lover to Sam. Jerry almost touches her but pulls back at the last moment, stating that it's wrong. Despite his reservations, Sam urges him to face the truth - they've all experienced profound loss, and they deserve happiness. Despite her persuasive argument, Jerry resists, reminding her of their familial connection. Sam counters that they are not blood relatives, but Jerry remains conflicted, feeling as though he's betraying his brother. Sam insists that her father would want them to find happiness. She leans in for a kiss, and this time, Jerry succumbs. What begins as a tentative exploration soon turns into a passionate embrace. Jerry and Sam have found comfort in each other, but will Linda accept this unexpected turn of events?