INT. ISS - COMMAND HQ - UPPER DECK - NIGHT 

The consoles ignite and the aluminum alloy rafters RATTLE. CAPTAIN ALMA, early 30’s, stands firm at the center platform. The CREW members panic in disarray. 

ALMA

Initiate prime thrusters.

CREW #1

We’re already at max capacity, Captain. 

A heavy THUD shakes the entire ship. 

CREW #2

Down to fifty percent, Captain. 

ALMA (V.O.)

Who would’ve thought in my final days I’d be taken out by an asteroid field.  

The doors behind her glide open. GRISHA PETEROVICH, early 40’s, a gentle giant, strides in with a soft expression on his face. Alma turns to him with a sense of calmness.  

GRISHA

No need to worry, Captain. Allow me to handle this. 

Grisha slowly paces towards the control console. He places his giant tender hand on the shoulder of the OPERATOR. 

GRISHA

In times of a crisis, remain calm. We’ll make it out of here no problem. Trust me. Take a deep breath and focus. 

The Operator does just that. He grips the handle and guides the ship smoothly out of the cluster of asteroids. 

The Crew rejoices in celebration. Alma takes a deep sigh of relief. 

GRISHA

Always remember to smile. 

Grisha turns towards Alma and releases a smile of optimism. He walks through the sliding doors.

Alma takes a deep breath of relaxation. She turns to the Crew. 

ALMA

Outstanding work out there. Let’s get this ship back on course. 

CREW

(ALL)

Yes, Captain!

Alma turns towards the doors and rushes out. 

INT. ISS - CENTER DECK - MOMENTS LATER

Alma proceeds down the long dwindled hall. She comes to the end of the tunnel with no one in sight. Alma hangs her head low as she walks back to the upper deck. Before she enters the door, Grisha is slumped over with a photo in his hand.  

ALMA

Grisha... There you are. I wanted to thank you for taking charge in such a great time of stress.

Grisha responds with a huge grin that lights up like fireworks in the night sky. 

ALMA

How were you able to remain calm like that? You managed to evade a disaster when everyone had panicked. 

Grisha stands up against the wall. He is towering over Alma. Yet, his aura is kind and warm. He reminds her of a soft teddy bear. 

Grisha stares contently at the picture in his hand. 

EXT. THE SLUMS - RESIDENTIAL STREET - FLASHBACK - DAY 

Heavy winds breeze through the air as snow flurries cover the cobblestone street. SOFIYA, late 20’s, a tiny woman with a heart of gold, is bundled up with bags in her hand. LITTLE GRISHA, 10 years old, walks beside her with a loaf of bread. 

GRISHA

Mama... I’m so hungry and cold. 

SOFIYA

Hold tight my little angel. Not much further now. I’ll be sure to cook your favorite soup as soon as we get back. 

They continue down the treacherous path. Grisha is exhausted. 

GRISHA

Mama, I’m too tired. I can’t walk anymore. 

Sofiya places the bags down gently on the damp street. She lifts Grisha on her back. Grisha looks at his mother. Even though her lips were blue, she had a smile on her face. 

INT. PETROVICH RESIDENCE - KITCHEN - MOMENTS LATER

The thick coating of snow melts off their clothes. Sofiya sets down little Grisha, and places the bags on the table. Grisha is shivering. Sofiya grabs a pile of wood and ignites the fire.  

SOFIYA

There you go, my dear. You’ll warm back up in no time. 

Grisha bundles himself by the fire as Sofiya preps for supper. 

GRISHA

I can help. 

SOFIYA

That’s okay. You warm up as I get supper ready. I can’t have you getting sick now. 

GRISHA

Okay, Mama. 

Grisha analyzes Sofiya. She is shivering and shaken. But still HUMS with a huge smile on her face. 

SOFIYA

Not much longer now, Grisha. That belly of yours will be up and running in no time. 

Grisha walks over to her. 

GRISHA

Mama... I was wondering--

SOFIYA

Yes, my dear. 

GRISHA

How are you able to be calm and happy all the time? 

Sofiya smiles. 

SOFIYA

Because of you. 

GRISHA

Me? 

SOFIYA

No matter how hard life may be or the challenges we face... I remind myself that I have all I could ever ask for. And that’s you my dear. You are the light to my world. 

Sofiya kneels down in front of Grisha. 

SOFIYA

Remember this... Being happy goes a long way. Be that light for others in great times of stress. That positivity will rub off on them. Allow my love to live through you for many years on. 

They share a tender hug. Sofiya kisses Grisha on the forehead. 

BACK TO:

INT. ISS - CENTER DECK - NIGHT

Grisha grips the photo in front of him. An elegant and charming woman stands in a vibrant dress alongside a boy in slacks. It’s Sofiya and little Grisha. 

GRISHA

My mama. The most beautiful woman in all of Russia. Every single day she reminds me of how precious life is. All the love and joy she taught me... 

Alma places her hand on his chest. 

ALMA

Your mother must’ve been a wonderful person. Because without her, you wouldn’t be who you are. This is why I would like to extend you a promotion. 

GRISHA

I would be honored to accept this advancement for the Russian Space System. 

ALMA

Then it’s settled. Congratulations, Grisha. Never change. Keep bringing that beacon of light to the crew. 

Grisha smiles with a huge grin. Alma gently smiles back. The Crew members come out of the double doors in celebration. They rejoice. 

CREW #3

Congrats big guy!

Grisha puts his large arm around the crew member's shoulder. 

CREW #3

Easy there. Your arm weighs a ton! 

Grisha and the Crew laugh. 

GRISHA

My apologies. I must’ve forgotten because of the excitement. 

THE END