Synopsis: This is only the conversation between Steve and Mel, Steve passing on the art of being your own best friend.

Transcribed via microcassette.

STEVE
You know, everything that's happened to me in this past year, happened because I panicked.. You know, I acted too quick. An' then everything got complicated. Let me tell you something I — I — I wish I'd taken my time, and thought about my options.

MELANIE
It isn't the same thing, Steve.

STEVE
D'you want i'— to get away from the pressure, don't ya?

MELANIE
Yeah.

STEVE
You see, that's the point, right? The only one puttin' the pressure on here is you. You feel guilty.

MELANIE
Of course I feel guilty. Every time I think o' those kids I feel guilty. You know — uh. I should never have let it get this far. You know, deep down, I always knew that, but I let myself be persuaded to walk down that aisle.

STEVE
[slightly amused] No. No, no, no. Nuh—you don't get it, see?
You thought you were doin' the right thing. Right? You thought you could make yourself love Ian, didn't you?

MELANIE
[ashamed, nods]

STEVE
Mel. You were just wrong. You can't blame yourself for that.

MELANIE
[unconvinced] Can't I?

STEVE
Of course you can't. Look. Leavin' the square, you know, it, it ain't gonna change anything.
Listen: you feel guilty about those kids now? Imagine what leavin' 'em like this is gonna do to 'em.
You know, running away from the truth —yeah?— gets you nowhere. Believe me, ya know. I should know.

MELANIE
[swallows, whisper] I can't face goin' home now..

STEVE
Then don't. You know.. Look, why don't you come stay at my place. You know, just until you make your mind up.
[off her look] Okay, come on. Ya no—just the room. No funny business.. I'm ju—I'm, I'm just givin' you some space to think, that's all.

MELANIE
[doubtful] I d-don't think that's a good idea. Do you?

Last Update: 5 June 2006