A recovering addict's relapse destroys his family when his daughter accidentally ingests heroin he hid in their home, leading to a tragic spiral of guilt and violence.
Type:
Short
Status:
For sale
Page Count:
31pp
Genre:
Crime, Drama, Thriller
Budget:
Independent
Age Rating:
17+
Synopsis/Details
A Family on the Edge Carl and Nikki appear to have it all: a beautiful home, a loving daughter, and a bond that has weathered storms. But beneath the surface, Carl is drowning in a battle with alcohol and drugs, a struggle that began years ago when Nikki’s betrayal shattered his trust. Despite his promises to change, Carl’s addiction continues to haunt him, threatening to tear his family apart. One stormy night, Carl stumbles home drunk, collapsing in front of his horrified wife and six-year-old daughter, Tamara. Nikki’s disgust is palpable, but her love for Carl forces her to clean up his mess—again. Tamara, innocent and adoring, only wants her father’s love, unaware of the darkness lurking beneath his charming facade. The Cycle of Deception Carl’s attempts to maintain normalcy are short-lived. He promises Tamara the world—doughnuts, bedtime stories, and undivided attention—but his addiction always pulls him back. When an old "friend," Dominic, resurfaces with a tempting offer, Carl’s resolve crumbles. He takes a bag of heroin, convincing himself he can handle it, but his actions set off a chain of events that will change his family forever. Nikki, meanwhile, is hiding her own secrets. She’s planning a surprise anniversary gift—a symbol of her love and commitment to Carl—but her past infidelity continues to cast a shadow over their relationship. As she confides in her friend Jackie, it becomes clear that Nikki’s guilt and Carl’s addiction are intertwined, each feeding the other’s pain. The Unthinkable Happens Carl’s addiction spirals out of control. In a moment of desperation, he hides the heroin in the sugar canister, never imagining the consequences. Tamara, eager to be just like her father, unknowingly consumes the tainted sugar. The result is catastrophic: Tamara collapses, foaming at the mouth, and is rushed to the hospital in a coma.
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The Writer: Bernard Mersier

Born and raised in Detroit, Michigan. Some of my work that's been produced include two stage plays. "The same woman in me." "Family abuse" which is also part of an anthology I've written titled "Mirrors with no images." The feature film I have in production is titled "The heartbreaker.” Go to bio
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