INT. HOME, LIVING ROOM – LATER
(Danet settles next to Ma.)
(Ma looks at her, softening for the first time.)
Around my wedding day, the neighbors called me, “Ghost Bride.”
(Ma giggles.)
Because I was so fair. And your father. He had just arrived from China down the river and was as dark as charcoal.
(It’s rare that she speaks of him.)
Our wedding day was the first time we had a meal together. He poured tea for everyone at the table before himself. And I thought, “this man will care for me and our children.” And he did.
(Ma’s eyes sparkle like Danet has never seen before. But they turn sorrowful when she turns to her daughter.)
You’ve got no father. Your oldest brothers are gone. I can’t do it on my own, Danet. I know I am disappointing you, but I’m old. And now it’s my time to need you.
(Embarrassed, she lets out a breath to let her guard down.)
Go take that Exam and move on. Chhay’s a good guy. You can love him. But promise me: give him 90% and save the rest for yourself.
(Mother knows best. In this moment, Danet believes hers.)
(Ros Serey Sothea’s “Song for Goodbye” plays on the radio.)
(Ma hums along to the song until it turns into words:)
[We’re about to part / We are really parting, never to see each other again / My heart is shattered / My tears flow freely / Today is our last meeting / Let’s meet again someday / Please, my love, don’t forget me.]
(Ma sings along, longing for the husband and sons she lost.)
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