...

LISA (to Lisa, without looking up from her iPhone) Well?

JOHN (without looking at her) What?

LISA I texted you over five minutes ago.

JOHN Can’t you see I’m in the middle of a game with my friends?

LISA Answer me as soon as you lose.

JOHN Thanks. Don’t hold your breath.

PAT I can't believe it! New Visa restrictions are making it harder for international artists to get into the country. (to Mike) Might make a good topic for my show. (he keeps working) Did you hear me, Mike? (looks at kids) Does anybody hear me?

MIKE Did you say something, dear?

PAT A number of times.

MIKE Sorry, Pat. I'm prepping for a distance-learning class I’m giving on Bertrand Russell. Be with you momentarily. Talk with the kids.

PAT How? (calls) Children. (no response) Oh, children. (still no reponse; to Mike) I remember when parents had some influence on home life. (back to children) Lisa! John! Do you hear me? It's your mother! Remember me?

LISA What? (elbows John)

JOHN Hunh? PAT I thought we might talk if you can free yourselves for a moment from your high-tech toys.

LISA You’re always on your iPad, too.

PAT I have to keep up. It's part of my job. Actually, I don't know what I'd do without it.