INT. JANE'S LIVING ROOM - DAY Jane (14, Taiwanese-American) and Aaron (14, Taiwanese-Malaysian-American) are sitting on Jane's couch, engrossed in a conversation. Jane is flipping through a book while Aaron watches, clearly nervous. JANE (reading aloud) "Top 10 common phobias: Acrophobia... Arachnophobia... Agoraphobia..." AARON (looking uneasy) Hey, Jane, maybe we shouldn't read that. Phobias make me really uncomfortable. Jane closes the book and puts it aside, concerned. JANE Oh, sorry, Aaron. I didn't know. Are you scared of something in particular? Aaron hesitates, fidgeting with his hands. AARON Well, I have a fear of heights. It's called acrophobia. I get super anxious when I'm up high. Even going up an escalator makes me feel dizzy. Jane nods empathetically. JANE I understand. Heights can be really intimidating. You know, my cousin has the same phobia. She avoids tall buildings like the plague. Aaron smiles, relieved to have shared his secret. AARON Thanks, Jane. It's a relief someone gets it. I wish I could just get over it. JANE I'm sure it takes time and practice, Aaron. If you ever want, we can work on it together. Maybe start with something small, like climbing a step ladder. Aaron blushes, grateful for Jane's support. AARON That would be nice, Jane. Thanks. Jane and Aaron are interrupted by the sound of the front door opening. Aaron's mother, Mrs. Ling (early 40s, Taiwanese), enters the house, talking on her phone. She looks anxious and distracted. MRS. LING (nervously into the phone) Yes, I know, honey. But I just can't. I can't get on a plane. You know that. Aaron's eyes widen, recognizing his mother's phobia. He looks over at Jane, who notices his reaction. JANE (hushed) Is everything okay, Aaron? Aaron sighs, biting his lower lip. AARON It's my mom. She's terrified of flying, like... really terrified. Just the thought of it makes her panic. Jane places a comforting hand on Aaron's shoulder. JANE I'm sorry to hear that, Aaron. Does she have a name for it? AARON Yeah, it's called aviophobia. She hasn't flown in years. It really limits her travel options. MRS. LING hangs up the phone, visibly agitated. MRS. LING (anxiously) Aaron, I need you to come with me to the store. I can't drive alone. Aaron looks at Jane with a mix of concern and resignation. AARON Sorry, Jane. I have to go. Mom's having a rough time again. JANE No worries, Aaron. Take care of your mom. We'll talk later, okay? Aaron smiles slightly, grateful for Jane's understanding. AARON Thanks, Jane. You're a true friend. They exchange a small wave before Aaron follows his mother out of the door. FADE OUT.