Once and Again (1999) s01e14 Episode Script
Sneaky Feelings
Sneaky Feelings We've been talking about themes and symbolism.
We've been talking about ducks and the red hunting cap and what they mean.
What about Phoebe? Can anyone tell me what she represents to her brother? Toby.
She's his little sister? Yes, that's true.
Anybody else? Can anyone expound on what Toby has just said? Jessie, what do you think? Um, she's still sort of innocent to him.
Yes, innocent.
And how does she turn Holden around? He kind of idolizes her.
Maybe.
This is cooler than mine, I think.
I like the red.
I don't know.
Hers are so bad.
They're too long.
I know.
Those are pretty bad.
Jess, would you please go away? She can stay.
I can stay.
I always wanted to have a little sister.
Yeah.
You can have her.
Jennifer? You like this? No.
That's hideous.
Yeah, I know.
Who would wear that? Oh, Eli, these are those shoes I want you to get.
Oh, yeah.
They look great.
You didn't even look at them.
He doesn't like shopping, really.
Um, those aren't my style.
Um, you don't have a style.
Exactly.
Not having a style is my style.
Oh, really? Hey, watch it.
No! No! No! Oh, God, get off! Never.
Don't move.
One time when we were camping-- this was before you know, my parents were still together.
They were in one tent, and my brother and I were in the other and they--they must have thought that we were asleep but we weren't.
I'll hang out with you later, okay? Okay.
We could hear them completely.
This is so embarrassing.
I mean, it was loud and I couldn't believe that it was my mom.
Well, uh, thanks again for lunch, Lloyd.
It was a great surprise.
Langham from H.
U.
D.
called.
- I love dim sum.
- They want to cancel the 4:30 deposition.
Figures.
I--I'm sorry.
What were you saying? Nothing, just that I love dim sum.
And you're late for your 2:00.
Uh, so I--I really have to run.
Oh, right.
I should be getting back, too.
I've got like 3,462 phone calls to return.
That was a joke.
So I'll see you tonight? Yeah.
Uh, I--I'm looking forward to it.
We missed.
I'm--I'm sorry.
It's--It's just a little weird around here.
All right, I'll-- I'll, uh see you later.
Okay.
I didn't date for a long time after the divorce.
I thought I should concentrate on other things.
The kids took up most of my time.
I mean, that's what I wanted.
It's something that I decided.
So I--I think that we need to attack this in a more oblique way.
Great.
What do you have in mind? - Well-- - Hi.
Hi.
Hello.
Karen? - Yeah? - What do you have in mind? Oh.
Yeah, right.
Uh, so what I'm proposing is that we allocate existing residences-- Oh, that'll take too much time.
- Excuse me? - It'll take too long.
Everything you guys do ends up in this, like, this bureaucratic quagmire.
"You guys"? What-- Yeah.
Lawyers.
I'm sick of all of you.
No offense.
None taken.
I'm Karen Sammler.
I didn't catch your name.
I'm sorry.
Karen, this is Dr.
Fisher.
He's on the board of the AIDS housing initiative.
In fact, he started the foster clinic on South street.
This will house most of his patients.
Well, I didn't realize-- - What? - What? You thought I was a bike messenger? - No.
I-- - Good.
Maybe we could continue, then.
I don't have a lot of time.
Right.
Okay.
What I'm thinking is that in order to avoid a conflict with the C.
H.
A it might be in our best interest to apportion sections of Cabrini-Green using the subsidies that were earmarked for the AIDS housing project-- Sorry.
With a renovation time of roughly uh, six to nine months-- I'm sorry.
Craig, you have a conference call.
I--I'll be right there.
So it sounds like we're in great shape.
But, Craig, we have a few more points to go over.
Uh, how long is your conference call? I'm really tied up with that pesticide thing, and, uh, you seem to have a handle on it.
- No-- - Dr.
Fisher, if it's okay with you, I want you to take the case.
Yeah, that's fine.
Well Craig, that--that-- It's okay.
Well, that's great.
Hey, uh, are you, uh you hungry? No.
Okay.
No, no.
I think overall, you did a really good job.
You just might want to look at your conclusion again.
Thanks.
I will do that.
You're welcome.
The first time I saw Jennifer she was, uh, she was holding up the lunch line in some sort of protest over the lack of organic choices.
She was really worked up about it.
I mean, how could somebody be so passionate about lettuce? It was really cute.
Come on, Sammler, let's hit it, man.
All right, all right.
So, what time is practice over? I have to go to the library.
I could wait for you.
It's gonna run long, you know? Herchell's kind of in control right now.
Well, where do you think you'll be tonight? Um, Mom's.
You know, actually, I might be at my dad's.
You know what? I haven't really decided yet.
- But I got to go or the coach is gonna make me do extra wind sprints.
- Go, go.
Be a jock.
Okay.
Not being allowed to play was, like, the worst thing.
You know, not being on the team just-- I didn't even feel like myself.
So I-- I had to raise my grades and Jennifer was there for me.
She didn't even like sports.
Ironic, huh? - Did you hear about Mathison? - No.
What? - Suspended.
- Really? Who won? We did, thanks to Cassidy.
Shut up.
What are you guys, like, undefeated? Uh, no, we lost one to New Trier.
Well, still, New Trier is a tough team.
You follow girls' volleyball? - What's that? - What? Well, sort of.
So, are, uh, you guys going on the ski trip? When is it? What? What? What's wrong? Oh, no.
I just have a cramp.
Uh, go like this.
It's your pressure point.
No.
You're just trying to make me look stupid.
No, I'm serious.
It works.
I think the pain's going away.
I knew I'd look stupid.
But it worked.
So give me your number.
I'll call you with the details.
- Details? - For the ski trip? Right.
Right.
Um, yeah.
Hold on.
Uh, here.
Sorry.
- Bye, Dad.
- Oh, bye, sweetie.
Oh, wait.
Dad, you should come in.
Lloyd's here.
Oh, I don't think Mom would like that.
No, but you have to see this thing that he does when he sees me.
He goes, "Hey, Jessie James.
" - It's so bizarre.
- It's really strange.
Well, I'm sure he's just trying to relate to you guys.
- Well, he's really old.
- He's my age, Eli.
Yeah, but he acts like an old guy.
Well, you guys, you liked him well enough when he took you to the Bulls game.
That was 'cause we had really good seats.
Yeah.
I didn't say I didn't like him.
- All right.
Goodbye.
- Bye.
When my dad first told us he was moving out I remember all I could think about was where would he go and where would he stay? That's--That's what I was worried about.
And I kept picturing him sleeping in all these strange places like park benches.
And what if he needed his pillow? Oh, wait, Dad.
You have my scarf? Bye, sweetie.
Come on.
Bye, Dad.
And if you're interested in the Naval Academy I happen to be like this with Congressman Stuber.
We went to Andover together.
Thanks, uh, but I'm not really considering any of the armed forces.
Mom, I have homework.
Okay.
- Honey, would you get the dessert? - Sure.
Lloyd, don't worry about it.
Hey, Jessie James what's for dessert? Fruit.
I know I keep telling you this, but I got to tell you, Karen-- your kids-- I really like them.
They're just terrific.
Yeah, they're okay.
Hey, how do they like bowling? Thursday night is Rock 'n' Bowl at the alley.
It's great.
They have this fog over all the lanes and stuff.
Oh, yeah.
Well, Lloyd, they've got homework and all that.
But--but maybe if we plan it for another time, maybe.
- Sure.
Whatever.
- Okay.
I just would really like to get to know them better.
Lloyd I think things are progressing naturally.
So do I.
What do you mean? Uh, well, that-- you know-- that we shouldn't force anything.
Right.
Of course.
I'll get it.
I thought you said you were gonna be at your dad's.
No one was there.
I said I didn't know.
- Well, it doesn't matter, because I tracked you down.
- You did.
She's great.
I mean, she helps me out so much and I'm totally into her as a person.
Did you do your homework yet? No, uh, not yet.
Okay.
Let's go.
But lately it just seems like every time I turn around there she is.
Oh, man.
Mom? Yeah? Do you like Lloyd's sense of humor? Well, I don't know.
I never really thought about it, but yeah, I guess so.
You don't find it corny? Well, you know, Lloyd's a really sweet man and, you know his sense of humor is a little corny, yes.
Did you like Dad's sense of humor? Answer the phone.
Hello? Uh hold on.
Let me check.
Mom, it's for Eli, and it's a girl.
So? What should I do? I mean, isn't this a really awkward situation? Jennifer is downstairs.
Sweetie, it's perfectly natural for a girl to be calling Eli.
No.
Please, take the phone.
I cannot do this.
Hello? Sure.
One moment.
Can I ask who's calling? Eli, you have a phone call.
Who is it? I fell in love with you Never mind.
I'll get it.
Hey, girlfriend.
Hi.
You okay? Yeah, I'm fine.
Do you want me to paint your toenails? I'm not going to get married till I'm 34.
I love this color.
So who was that? Nobody.
It was the coach.
This looks great with your skin color.
I like it.
Last night on the mass pike How about an egg and milk? I'm off dairy.
You know, I wish you had asked that girl on the phone what she wanted with Eli.
Did you at least listen in on their conversation? Do you think that's an appropriate mother thing to do? Absolutely.
It's almost your responsibility.
Well, I think that it's my responsibility to respect Eli's privacy.
You're not even a little bit curious? Eat this granola bar.
So I guess it's okay to lie because he did to Jennifer right in front of me.
Jess, we need to let Eli run his own life.
Hey, that's my shirt.
Hey! You gave it to me.
You want juice? Yeah.
Thank you.
Oh, that's bad.
- E.
? - Yep? That girl who called last night Yeah? What was her name? Cassidy? Yeah.
Okay, look.
The last thing I want to do is pry.
I just--is everything okay with you and Jennifer? Yes.
Yes, it's fine.
It's just-- It's a little confusing right now, okay? Well, okay, then.
So do you want to talk about it? I mean, I--I understand-- No.
No, thanks, okay? I'll figure it out.
But look, just--just remember that girls are very sensitive at that age.
Okay? Okay.
I don't like this.
I don't I--I don't like this.
You keep saying that.
This is your whole proposal? Yeah.
What if, uh What? What if what? Uh no.
You'll think it's crazy.
If I think it's crazy, I'm-- I'm gonna be sure to let you know.
Okay.
I--I can't help but think we could just overturn the legislation.
Okay, see, that's a double negative.
What? "Can't help but think" is a double negative.
Right.
"Can't help thinking" would be the proper form.
We weren't that concerned about grammar in medical school.
We were a little more interested in saving lives, but thank you-- Dr.
Fisher, i--it would take years to overturn this kind of legislation.
- Leo.
- Leo it would take years to overturn this kind of legislation.
Okay, why can't we start one of those ballot petition things? Because that would take even longer! What if we pay someone off? You have connections.
Right.
Maybe we should order lunch.
Okay.
You know, that-- that's--that's a good idea.
What are you in the mood for? I don't care.
I'll eat anything.
Your pick.
All right.
Indian.
What? I, um, it--it doesn't really agree with me.
Okay.
Well, how about Italian? You mean like pizza or something? Uh, you choose.
No, your pick.
Really.
It's fine.
Just no Greek.
Hey, Eli, I think we should get this one.
You're a little pervert.
Oh, my God.
I think this is my math teacher.
Right.
So you like girls' volleyball and you're a sucker for romantic comedies.
Uh, hi.
Hi.
Um, I wasn't really gonna rent this.
I--I was just--I was checking the running time.
- Oh, really? - Yeah.
What is it? I have no idea.
Okay, so now you made me look stupid.
- So now we're even.
- Yeah.
Eli, I'm ready to go.
Hi.
Hi.
Did you get "The Philadelphia Story"? Dad wanted it.
He did? Yes.
Yes, he did.
Now go get it.
So your dad's a sap, too? Yeah.
Yeah, we're just, uh, one big sappy family.
Yeah.
Oh, um, I'm glad I ran into you - because I forgot to tell you about the ski trip.
- Oh, yeah.
You, um, have to have your parents sign this permission thing.
Okay.
I think I have one.
Well, yeah.
Great.
Um, but, you know, I don't, you know, know if I-- Oh, not that you're going.
I just thought you should have one, you know, in case.
Okay.
Great.
Thanks.
Okay, Eli, I've got it.
Let's go.
Cassidy, come on.
Oh, I've got to go.
Okay, cool.
a bunch of people are coming over later to watch scary movies.
I know it's lame, but if you want to come Maybe.
Cool.
So maybe I'll see you.
Yeah.
All right.
Let's go, Eli.
I don't see what's wrong with being nice to people.
I mean, if it's someone from school who's nice who I like I think it's okay to have a conversation.
Right? Isn't that the same girl who called last night? I think I recognize that voice.
- It is none of your business.
- It is my business.
You made me an accomplice to your little crime of lies with Jennifer who happens to be my good friend.
And what was that piece of paper I saw you put in your pocket? Would you get in the car? I'm not unsympathetic to your patients.
Believe me.
That's the last-- We can't just stick them in existing housing.
That defeats the whole purpose.
Don't you understand? Not only do they deal with being sick every day but they contend with horrible discrimination.
They need to be protected.
They need their own housing.
But we cannot construct new public housing in census tracts where more than 30% of the residents are African-American - What? - or more than 15% of the housing stock is public housing-- that's the law.
Yeah, well, it seems arbitrary.
No.
It is not arbitrary.
It was designed to keep low-income housing from becoming segregated.
I'd like to think that I'm doing something important with my life that I'll make a difference, but Do you hate your job? Why would you ask me something like that? there are times when-- Oh, I don't know-- I'm just trying to make it through the week.
I thought you might be one of those people who goes through the motions.
A lot of people do that.
You know, uh, how-- how dare you question my commitment? I--I love what I do.
Okay.
Okay.
You know--you know, Leo, I think that I'm a fairly tolerant person-- I'm bothering you.
Yes! You are.
Yeah.
You--You are.
Oh, my God.
Oh, I'm sorry, Lloyd.
This is gonna take a lot longer than I expected.
This guy is insufferable, and I'm just letting him get to me.
I--I know the type.
There's this guy in my office who went to Dartmouth.
He's always got to have the last word on everything.
You know what? Never mind.
I--I'm sorry.
I'll--I'll make it up to you.
No problem.
How about tomorrow? Um, well, I-- I promised Jessie that I'd do something with her tomorrow.
Okay.
You know what? Why-- why don't you come with us? No.
That's your day together.
No, come on.
It'll be--it'll be fun.
You'll buy us an expensive lunch, and we'll totally take advantage of you.
How can I say no to that? Good.
- Okay.
- Okay.
I was out of line.
I have no social skills.
See, that's my idea of an apology.
I am totally inept.
I was inappropriate.
No, you're obviously in public interest law 'cause you care about what you do.
Otherwise, you'd be billing $350 an hour.
Well, what about you? Why aren't you in private practice? Bottom of my class.
No.
Um, uh my family's rich.
I--I don't-- I don't have a specific reason.
I guess I just wanted to make it easier for people who have no hope.
Well, you've-- you've done amazing work.
I mean, it's incredible, actually.
Thanks.
Okay, so I'm still trying to figure out if the funds are there, why we can't build a new building.
Because right now that is not an option.
Well, there's got to be a way-- a loophole, something.
I mean, maybe if you'd try a little harder-- Oh, you know, I don't believe you.
- What? - You just insulted me again! I did? I am bad news.
I--You know what? Don't pay attention to me.
I'm just gonna go in the corner, sit down, and shut up.
Wait.
I--I've got a thought.
- You do? - Yeah.
Yeah.
If we--if we can convince the city council that, you know, there's been sufficient revitalization in the neighborhood maybe we can get them to grant us a consent.
Yes! Revitalization! That's great! I'll type.
Just tell me what to say.
You shouldn't go.
It's like a date or something.
Look, it's nothing.
It's just a bunch of people watching a movie, so get off my back.
I don't care if you go or not, Eli, but I just don't see how you can live with yourself.
Go where? Nowhere.
Dad, Eli made me get you "The Philadelphia Story".
Great.
Great.
I'll make popcorn.
Dad, I'm going over to a friend's house to watch a movie with a bunch of people.
Um, it's, uh, it's not a party, but it's, uh, more than one person.
Be back by 12:00, okay, bud? You got it.
Hi.
What are you doing here? Why? Don't you want me here? No.
Of--of course.
You just surprised me.
Oh.
Were you going somewhere? Uh, no.
Movie's starting.
No butter? It's healthy.
We're not gonna wait.
Just start.
I'll be there in a second.
So, uh, you don't want to watch? No.
Not really.
What do you want to do, then? I don't know.
There's nothing to eat! What's this? A permission slip for a ski trip or something.
Oh.
You going? Well, I--I haven't really decided yet.
Uh, I don't know.
Eli Yeah? Is something wrong? I mean, did I do something? What do you mean? I don't know.
I mean, I just I feel like something's weird or something.
I--I don't know.
Can I have a hug? I just love you so much.
Okay, the movie is starting.
Bring the salt, will ya? My guidance counselor told my parents that I'm self-confident and focused which is the complete opposite of what I am.
You know how right before something bad happens everything just starts to slow down? Well it seems like that all the time lately.
And I know that I'm probably overreacting to, like, every little thing but I can't help myself.
And this was on your gynecological rotation? Yeah.
- Okay, it's not that funny.
- It is that funny.
No, I think you're just sleep-deprived.
Yeah, maybe.
Oh, God, I haven't stayed up all night like this since I was in law school.
I think this is a great proposal, Leo.
Yeah.
I think we work well together.
Oh, I've got to get going.
I've got to pick up my daughter.
How old are you? Oh, you really are socially inept.
Do you like doughnuts? Why, you going to say something about my thighs? No.
I was just thinking maybe we could, you know grab some breakfast or something to celebrate.
Oh, no, I--I've got to get going.
Wait.
Yeah? Okay.
Sit down.
Have some breakfast.
No, thank you.
Hello? Hey, Jen.
Uh, just-- Listen, I think he actually-- he stepped out for a second.
Have him call you back? Okay.
All right.
I'm so disgusted right now.
What was that all about? I have no idea.
She's a brat? Eli, you know what I'm talking about.
What's going on with Jennifer? I just didn't feel like talking to her.
I have see her every day.
Isn't that enough? Okay, that's fine.
I don't want to interfere.
The thing is Yeah? I mean, I still like her but--but she expects me to spend every minute of the day with her and sometimes I just want to do things without her, you know? Then she just shows up.
Maybe you should tell her how you feel.
I don't want to hurt her.
Girls her age are so sensitive.
And manipulative.
How-- how do you know when it's you know, when something's over? Eli you're 16.
You're 16.
You shouldn't--you shouldn't have to think in those terms.
You shouldn't have to feel that responsible for somebody.
It's noble, but, uh I really don't think it's necessary at this point in your life.
Dad I don't know what to do.
Look I think Jennifer's terrific.
I really do.
But you have to ask yourself what it is you really want.
Oh, my God, that's heinous.
Eat it, Lloyd! Oh, my God! That is so disgusting! Mom, did you see that? Here.
Eat something else, Lloyd.
What is this? You okay, Karen? Oh, yeah.
I'm just a little tired.
How long did you have to stay? Not too late.
Jess, I think this one's vegetable.
- No, it looks like fish.
- Really? How far did you guys get? Um, uh we--we finished.
That's great.
Can I have some sake? No! How about some Tsingtao? - No.
- No.
How did you even know about that? Do you have to work tomorrow? Lloyd, I told you we were finished.
Right.
Lloyd, did you know that this is how you get the splinters up? No, I didn't know that.
En garde.
Touché! I think you're right, Mom.
Lloyd does have a good sense of humor.
I forgot the orange juice.
Did I tell you that Eli was flirting with some bimbo at the video store last night? Jessie I think it's the same girl that called.
I'm pretty sure it was.
Why are you so invested in this? Because Eli is cheating on Jennifer-- you know, like, in his heart.
It's still cheating, isn't it? Yeah, but it's not fair to blame Eli when you may not know all the details, sweetie.
But still, how can somebody do that to someone? I don't know.
Sometimes things don't work out between people.
But Jennifer is so nice.
Do you think that Eli's gonna dump her? I don't know.
Shut the door.
Why are you taking Eli's side? Honey, I'm not taking anybody's side.
I'll never understand how some people can just all of a sudden stop being together.
I do-- I--I feel guilty about the divorce that my kids may never fully recover from it-- and part of me resents that, you know, I--I have to feel guilty about it at all.
And I feel like the worst thing I could do to my kids is to dwell in my own suffering, and I just wish I could stop.
Jessie, go tell Eli to come up here and pick up his things.
I'm telling you, we should get an intercom.
Eli! Wait.
What's this? Oh, yeah.
This one's great.
You have to hear this one song.
Mom Honey, what is it? Jessie? Hi.
Uh, Mom, this is, uh, Cassidy.
Hello.
Hi.
E.
, um, I need your help upstairs.
Okay.
I'm sorry if Jessie's freaking out, but I don't know what her problem is.
She's upset about Jennifer, about the way you're behaving.
Well, that's none of her business.
And you know what? It's not really any of your business either, Mom.
Okay, Eli, believe me, I don't want to be in the middle of a soap opera and I know this is your life right now but you need to do something or somebody's gonna get hurt.
Look, Mom, I am too young to feel responsible for someone.
What kind of crap is that? Dad and I talked about it.
Yeah, of course you did.
I What? Look, Eli, you need to do something about this.
Eli? I have to go.
Yeah.
Okay.
Bye, Mrs.
Sammler.
Bye.
Bye, Cassidy.
- It was nice meeting you.
- You too.
What is wrong with you? I won't stay in the same house as him! I won't.
He's wretched! - Wretched? How is any of this your business? - I'm not talking to you.
Look, you're a nut case.
Dad, I can't be expected to live like this.
Okay.
Okay.
I think it would be all right if you stay the night with me--just--just for tonight.
All right.
Okay.
Good.
I'll get my English homework, if I can remember where I put it.
I have homework.
This isn't a solution.
I know.
I know.
How did Eli's love life become a family crisis? Because this is what Jessie wants-- she wants us to be in the kitchen, worrying about her.
Well, I don't think we can blame her for--for wanting that.
No.
I But we let them manipulate us.
I don't let them manipulate me.
Are you kidding? You told Eli exactly what he wanted to hear about Jennifer.
I--I try to encourage Eli to make his own decisions.
I'm not just gonna tell him what to do.
Yeah, and you completely absolve him of any responsibility.
He thinks that being 16 means that there are no consequences, and-- That is entirely unfair.
Hello? I need to kiss you again.
I--I--I'm-- I'm gonna have to-- to get back to you on that.
Do you want to kiss me again? Well, that's something that we're-- that we'll have to talk about later.
You can't expect him to be perfect just because you never make any mistakes.
I think we're the same height.
Okay.
Um, so, I--I'll get back to you on that--on that.
- Okay.
- Good night.
Uh good night.
I think you set impossible standards and I think it's unfair to ask Eli to live up to them.
I'm not making a big dinner because there's you know, just the two of us, so Okay.
Okay.
- Thanks.
- Okay.
Mom? Yeah? I--I don't know how I'm gonna face Jennifer.
Oh, I don't know, E.
You know, I guess you just need to think about it and decide what you want to do.
Yeah.
Well what would you do? I know this may shock you but I--I don't actually have all the answers.
I--I know sometimes I act like I do but, you know, that's just because I feel that that's what a mother's supposed to do and I really have no idea what-- Mom.
Yeah? You're babbling.
I know.
This place is good but I have to say I'm partial to Flukey's which is the one over on Western.
It's all-beef dogs, of course and the mustard-- I don't know what they put in it, but But this is pretty good.
Do you like it? Yeah.
It's great.
I noticed that you didn't take the relish.
You don't like relish? Um, no, I--I do like relish.
I'm just not in a relish kind of mood today.
Fair enough.
You want some fries? No, no.
Anything to drink? Uh, no.
I'm fine.
Lloyd Yeah? I don't, um I, um don't think that I'm being fair to you.
I--I I mean, I just-- Karen, you don't have to say anything.
Well, I--I do need to be upfront with you.
I don't need you to be.
Uh Lloyd, I--I need to be able to say what's on my mind.
I just--I just-- Look.
I know you haven't been completely invested in this relationship.
Half the time, uh - you don't even hear what I'm saying.
- Lloyd It's okay.
You're a complicated person, and I'm not.
You have all these moods and--and-- and vestiges of colors and I--I watch you.
I love watching you.
You you just shine from inside and I see that.
I see that.
And I--I think you need to be with somebody like me because-- Well, not because I'm safe or I'm comfortable, but because you deserve to be adored.
Karen? Lloyd, I'm trying to-- I'm really sorry.
I just-- Have a nice day.
Hi.
You weren't in Physics.
I had the dentist.
Right.
There was no homework.
Mr.
Fleck went on a whole rampage about chaotic molecules.
It was like a real spectacle.
A spectacle.
Can we go someplace and talk? Why? Because I need to explain some things.
So you can get some things off your chest? So you can feel better? 'Cause I feel like hell right now, Eli and I don't think that that's fair.
Look, I--I never meant for any of this to happen.
I knew something was wrong.
Why couldn't you just talk to me? I wanted to.
I I--I don't know.
You can't just play games with people, Eli.
It hurts too much.
Jen I care about you so much, Jen.
I really, really need you as a close friend.
That would be convenient for you, wouldn't it? You could just hang out with me whenever you felt like it and then you could go do whatever you wanted whenever you wanted to.
Can we at least try to be mature about this? Oh, sure.
Real mature.
After everything.
After you lied to me.
You can't have it both ways.
Jennifer.
You still mean a lot to me.
Not as much as you mean to me.
What are you reading? A book.
Right.
Makes sense.
You should grow a beard.
Why? I don't know.
I just think it would look good.
And it would annoy Mom.
She would hate it.
I don't think Mom would care.
One like the Amish-- you know, without the mustache.
Where are those feet? Don't tickle the feet.
Don't tickle my feet.
Don't tickle my feet! Don't tickle--aah! Oh so you're feeling better, huh? Was I sick? You know what I mean.
I just think that Eli's a jerk and I'm entitled to my own opinion.
Well, you can't help how you feel.
And I'll probably never get to see Jennifer again.
You might.
Or you might not.
It's just that people act like there's something better out there and that's just so stupid.
I mean, we only have the people we have, right? So if we run from that we keep running from that and I know that people think I'm delusional or something but I know what's going on.
And I just think that people make things harder than they should be and they put themselves through this unnecessary torture for no apparent reason.
At least, to me.
You ready to hit the slopes? Yes.
What do you think? You like? Oh, yeah.
That's great.
Hey, Eli.
I'll be back, okay? Thanks.
Hey, butterball.
Quit it.
Stop.
Stop! What? - I did not hurt you.
- That hurt! - You're such a baby.
- It did hurt.
Don't you believe me? Stop!
We've been talking about ducks and the red hunting cap and what they mean.
What about Phoebe? Can anyone tell me what she represents to her brother? Toby.
She's his little sister? Yes, that's true.
Anybody else? Can anyone expound on what Toby has just said? Jessie, what do you think? Um, she's still sort of innocent to him.
Yes, innocent.
And how does she turn Holden around? He kind of idolizes her.
Maybe.
This is cooler than mine, I think.
I like the red.
I don't know.
Hers are so bad.
They're too long.
I know.
Those are pretty bad.
Jess, would you please go away? She can stay.
I can stay.
I always wanted to have a little sister.
Yeah.
You can have her.
Jennifer? You like this? No.
That's hideous.
Yeah, I know.
Who would wear that? Oh, Eli, these are those shoes I want you to get.
Oh, yeah.
They look great.
You didn't even look at them.
He doesn't like shopping, really.
Um, those aren't my style.
Um, you don't have a style.
Exactly.
Not having a style is my style.
Oh, really? Hey, watch it.
No! No! No! Oh, God, get off! Never.
Don't move.
One time when we were camping-- this was before you know, my parents were still together.
They were in one tent, and my brother and I were in the other and they--they must have thought that we were asleep but we weren't.
I'll hang out with you later, okay? Okay.
We could hear them completely.
This is so embarrassing.
I mean, it was loud and I couldn't believe that it was my mom.
Well, uh, thanks again for lunch, Lloyd.
It was a great surprise.
Langham from H.
U.
D.
called.
- I love dim sum.
- They want to cancel the 4:30 deposition.
Figures.
I--I'm sorry.
What were you saying? Nothing, just that I love dim sum.
And you're late for your 2:00.
Uh, so I--I really have to run.
Oh, right.
I should be getting back, too.
I've got like 3,462 phone calls to return.
That was a joke.
So I'll see you tonight? Yeah.
Uh, I--I'm looking forward to it.
We missed.
I'm--I'm sorry.
It's--It's just a little weird around here.
All right, I'll-- I'll, uh see you later.
Okay.
I didn't date for a long time after the divorce.
I thought I should concentrate on other things.
The kids took up most of my time.
I mean, that's what I wanted.
It's something that I decided.
So I--I think that we need to attack this in a more oblique way.
Great.
What do you have in mind? - Well-- - Hi.
Hi.
Hello.
Karen? - Yeah? - What do you have in mind? Oh.
Yeah, right.
Uh, so what I'm proposing is that we allocate existing residences-- Oh, that'll take too much time.
- Excuse me? - It'll take too long.
Everything you guys do ends up in this, like, this bureaucratic quagmire.
"You guys"? What-- Yeah.
Lawyers.
I'm sick of all of you.
No offense.
None taken.
I'm Karen Sammler.
I didn't catch your name.
I'm sorry.
Karen, this is Dr.
Fisher.
He's on the board of the AIDS housing initiative.
In fact, he started the foster clinic on South street.
This will house most of his patients.
Well, I didn't realize-- - What? - What? You thought I was a bike messenger? - No.
I-- - Good.
Maybe we could continue, then.
I don't have a lot of time.
Right.
Okay.
What I'm thinking is that in order to avoid a conflict with the C.
H.
A it might be in our best interest to apportion sections of Cabrini-Green using the subsidies that were earmarked for the AIDS housing project-- Sorry.
With a renovation time of roughly uh, six to nine months-- I'm sorry.
Craig, you have a conference call.
I--I'll be right there.
So it sounds like we're in great shape.
But, Craig, we have a few more points to go over.
Uh, how long is your conference call? I'm really tied up with that pesticide thing, and, uh, you seem to have a handle on it.
- No-- - Dr.
Fisher, if it's okay with you, I want you to take the case.
Yeah, that's fine.
Well Craig, that--that-- It's okay.
Well, that's great.
Hey, uh, are you, uh you hungry? No.
Okay.
No, no.
I think overall, you did a really good job.
You just might want to look at your conclusion again.
Thanks.
I will do that.
You're welcome.
The first time I saw Jennifer she was, uh, she was holding up the lunch line in some sort of protest over the lack of organic choices.
She was really worked up about it.
I mean, how could somebody be so passionate about lettuce? It was really cute.
Come on, Sammler, let's hit it, man.
All right, all right.
So, what time is practice over? I have to go to the library.
I could wait for you.
It's gonna run long, you know? Herchell's kind of in control right now.
Well, where do you think you'll be tonight? Um, Mom's.
You know, actually, I might be at my dad's.
You know what? I haven't really decided yet.
- But I got to go or the coach is gonna make me do extra wind sprints.
- Go, go.
Be a jock.
Okay.
Not being allowed to play was, like, the worst thing.
You know, not being on the team just-- I didn't even feel like myself.
So I-- I had to raise my grades and Jennifer was there for me.
She didn't even like sports.
Ironic, huh? - Did you hear about Mathison? - No.
What? - Suspended.
- Really? Who won? We did, thanks to Cassidy.
Shut up.
What are you guys, like, undefeated? Uh, no, we lost one to New Trier.
Well, still, New Trier is a tough team.
You follow girls' volleyball? - What's that? - What? Well, sort of.
So, are, uh, you guys going on the ski trip? When is it? What? What? What's wrong? Oh, no.
I just have a cramp.
Uh, go like this.
It's your pressure point.
No.
You're just trying to make me look stupid.
No, I'm serious.
It works.
I think the pain's going away.
I knew I'd look stupid.
But it worked.
So give me your number.
I'll call you with the details.
- Details? - For the ski trip? Right.
Right.
Um, yeah.
Hold on.
Uh, here.
Sorry.
- Bye, Dad.
- Oh, bye, sweetie.
Oh, wait.
Dad, you should come in.
Lloyd's here.
Oh, I don't think Mom would like that.
No, but you have to see this thing that he does when he sees me.
He goes, "Hey, Jessie James.
" - It's so bizarre.
- It's really strange.
Well, I'm sure he's just trying to relate to you guys.
- Well, he's really old.
- He's my age, Eli.
Yeah, but he acts like an old guy.
Well, you guys, you liked him well enough when he took you to the Bulls game.
That was 'cause we had really good seats.
Yeah.
I didn't say I didn't like him.
- All right.
Goodbye.
- Bye.
When my dad first told us he was moving out I remember all I could think about was where would he go and where would he stay? That's--That's what I was worried about.
And I kept picturing him sleeping in all these strange places like park benches.
And what if he needed his pillow? Oh, wait, Dad.
You have my scarf? Bye, sweetie.
Come on.
Bye, Dad.
And if you're interested in the Naval Academy I happen to be like this with Congressman Stuber.
We went to Andover together.
Thanks, uh, but I'm not really considering any of the armed forces.
Mom, I have homework.
Okay.
- Honey, would you get the dessert? - Sure.
Lloyd, don't worry about it.
Hey, Jessie James what's for dessert? Fruit.
I know I keep telling you this, but I got to tell you, Karen-- your kids-- I really like them.
They're just terrific.
Yeah, they're okay.
Hey, how do they like bowling? Thursday night is Rock 'n' Bowl at the alley.
It's great.
They have this fog over all the lanes and stuff.
Oh, yeah.
Well, Lloyd, they've got homework and all that.
But--but maybe if we plan it for another time, maybe.
- Sure.
Whatever.
- Okay.
I just would really like to get to know them better.
Lloyd I think things are progressing naturally.
So do I.
What do you mean? Uh, well, that-- you know-- that we shouldn't force anything.
Right.
Of course.
I'll get it.
I thought you said you were gonna be at your dad's.
No one was there.
I said I didn't know.
- Well, it doesn't matter, because I tracked you down.
- You did.
She's great.
I mean, she helps me out so much and I'm totally into her as a person.
Did you do your homework yet? No, uh, not yet.
Okay.
Let's go.
But lately it just seems like every time I turn around there she is.
Oh, man.
Mom? Yeah? Do you like Lloyd's sense of humor? Well, I don't know.
I never really thought about it, but yeah, I guess so.
You don't find it corny? Well, you know, Lloyd's a really sweet man and, you know his sense of humor is a little corny, yes.
Did you like Dad's sense of humor? Answer the phone.
Hello? Uh hold on.
Let me check.
Mom, it's for Eli, and it's a girl.
So? What should I do? I mean, isn't this a really awkward situation? Jennifer is downstairs.
Sweetie, it's perfectly natural for a girl to be calling Eli.
No.
Please, take the phone.
I cannot do this.
Hello? Sure.
One moment.
Can I ask who's calling? Eli, you have a phone call.
Who is it? I fell in love with you Never mind.
I'll get it.
Hey, girlfriend.
Hi.
You okay? Yeah, I'm fine.
Do you want me to paint your toenails? I'm not going to get married till I'm 34.
I love this color.
So who was that? Nobody.
It was the coach.
This looks great with your skin color.
I like it.
Last night on the mass pike How about an egg and milk? I'm off dairy.
You know, I wish you had asked that girl on the phone what she wanted with Eli.
Did you at least listen in on their conversation? Do you think that's an appropriate mother thing to do? Absolutely.
It's almost your responsibility.
Well, I think that it's my responsibility to respect Eli's privacy.
You're not even a little bit curious? Eat this granola bar.
So I guess it's okay to lie because he did to Jennifer right in front of me.
Jess, we need to let Eli run his own life.
Hey, that's my shirt.
Hey! You gave it to me.
You want juice? Yeah.
Thank you.
Oh, that's bad.
- E.
? - Yep? That girl who called last night Yeah? What was her name? Cassidy? Yeah.
Okay, look.
The last thing I want to do is pry.
I just--is everything okay with you and Jennifer? Yes.
Yes, it's fine.
It's just-- It's a little confusing right now, okay? Well, okay, then.
So do you want to talk about it? I mean, I--I understand-- No.
No, thanks, okay? I'll figure it out.
But look, just--just remember that girls are very sensitive at that age.
Okay? Okay.
I don't like this.
I don't I--I don't like this.
You keep saying that.
This is your whole proposal? Yeah.
What if, uh What? What if what? Uh no.
You'll think it's crazy.
If I think it's crazy, I'm-- I'm gonna be sure to let you know.
Okay.
I--I can't help but think we could just overturn the legislation.
Okay, see, that's a double negative.
What? "Can't help but think" is a double negative.
Right.
"Can't help thinking" would be the proper form.
We weren't that concerned about grammar in medical school.
We were a little more interested in saving lives, but thank you-- Dr.
Fisher, i--it would take years to overturn this kind of legislation.
- Leo.
- Leo it would take years to overturn this kind of legislation.
Okay, why can't we start one of those ballot petition things? Because that would take even longer! What if we pay someone off? You have connections.
Right.
Maybe we should order lunch.
Okay.
You know, that-- that's--that's a good idea.
What are you in the mood for? I don't care.
I'll eat anything.
Your pick.
All right.
Indian.
What? I, um, it--it doesn't really agree with me.
Okay.
Well, how about Italian? You mean like pizza or something? Uh, you choose.
No, your pick.
Really.
It's fine.
Just no Greek.
Hey, Eli, I think we should get this one.
You're a little pervert.
Oh, my God.
I think this is my math teacher.
Right.
So you like girls' volleyball and you're a sucker for romantic comedies.
Uh, hi.
Hi.
Um, I wasn't really gonna rent this.
I--I was just--I was checking the running time.
- Oh, really? - Yeah.
What is it? I have no idea.
Okay, so now you made me look stupid.
- So now we're even.
- Yeah.
Eli, I'm ready to go.
Hi.
Hi.
Did you get "The Philadelphia Story"? Dad wanted it.
He did? Yes.
Yes, he did.
Now go get it.
So your dad's a sap, too? Yeah.
Yeah, we're just, uh, one big sappy family.
Yeah.
Oh, um, I'm glad I ran into you - because I forgot to tell you about the ski trip.
- Oh, yeah.
You, um, have to have your parents sign this permission thing.
Okay.
I think I have one.
Well, yeah.
Great.
Um, but, you know, I don't, you know, know if I-- Oh, not that you're going.
I just thought you should have one, you know, in case.
Okay.
Great.
Thanks.
Okay, Eli, I've got it.
Let's go.
Cassidy, come on.
Oh, I've got to go.
Okay, cool.
a bunch of people are coming over later to watch scary movies.
I know it's lame, but if you want to come Maybe.
Cool.
So maybe I'll see you.
Yeah.
All right.
Let's go, Eli.
I don't see what's wrong with being nice to people.
I mean, if it's someone from school who's nice who I like I think it's okay to have a conversation.
Right? Isn't that the same girl who called last night? I think I recognize that voice.
- It is none of your business.
- It is my business.
You made me an accomplice to your little crime of lies with Jennifer who happens to be my good friend.
And what was that piece of paper I saw you put in your pocket? Would you get in the car? I'm not unsympathetic to your patients.
Believe me.
That's the last-- We can't just stick them in existing housing.
That defeats the whole purpose.
Don't you understand? Not only do they deal with being sick every day but they contend with horrible discrimination.
They need to be protected.
They need their own housing.
But we cannot construct new public housing in census tracts where more than 30% of the residents are African-American - What? - or more than 15% of the housing stock is public housing-- that's the law.
Yeah, well, it seems arbitrary.
No.
It is not arbitrary.
It was designed to keep low-income housing from becoming segregated.
I'd like to think that I'm doing something important with my life that I'll make a difference, but Do you hate your job? Why would you ask me something like that? there are times when-- Oh, I don't know-- I'm just trying to make it through the week.
I thought you might be one of those people who goes through the motions.
A lot of people do that.
You know, uh, how-- how dare you question my commitment? I--I love what I do.
Okay.
Okay.
You know--you know, Leo, I think that I'm a fairly tolerant person-- I'm bothering you.
Yes! You are.
Yeah.
You--You are.
Oh, my God.
Oh, I'm sorry, Lloyd.
This is gonna take a lot longer than I expected.
This guy is insufferable, and I'm just letting him get to me.
I--I know the type.
There's this guy in my office who went to Dartmouth.
He's always got to have the last word on everything.
You know what? Never mind.
I--I'm sorry.
I'll--I'll make it up to you.
No problem.
How about tomorrow? Um, well, I-- I promised Jessie that I'd do something with her tomorrow.
Okay.
You know what? Why-- why don't you come with us? No.
That's your day together.
No, come on.
It'll be--it'll be fun.
You'll buy us an expensive lunch, and we'll totally take advantage of you.
How can I say no to that? Good.
- Okay.
- Okay.
I was out of line.
I have no social skills.
See, that's my idea of an apology.
I am totally inept.
I was inappropriate.
No, you're obviously in public interest law 'cause you care about what you do.
Otherwise, you'd be billing $350 an hour.
Well, what about you? Why aren't you in private practice? Bottom of my class.
No.
Um, uh my family's rich.
I--I don't-- I don't have a specific reason.
I guess I just wanted to make it easier for people who have no hope.
Well, you've-- you've done amazing work.
I mean, it's incredible, actually.
Thanks.
Okay, so I'm still trying to figure out if the funds are there, why we can't build a new building.
Because right now that is not an option.
Well, there's got to be a way-- a loophole, something.
I mean, maybe if you'd try a little harder-- Oh, you know, I don't believe you.
- What? - You just insulted me again! I did? I am bad news.
I--You know what? Don't pay attention to me.
I'm just gonna go in the corner, sit down, and shut up.
Wait.
I--I've got a thought.
- You do? - Yeah.
Yeah.
If we--if we can convince the city council that, you know, there's been sufficient revitalization in the neighborhood maybe we can get them to grant us a consent.
Yes! Revitalization! That's great! I'll type.
Just tell me what to say.
You shouldn't go.
It's like a date or something.
Look, it's nothing.
It's just a bunch of people watching a movie, so get off my back.
I don't care if you go or not, Eli, but I just don't see how you can live with yourself.
Go where? Nowhere.
Dad, Eli made me get you "The Philadelphia Story".
Great.
Great.
I'll make popcorn.
Dad, I'm going over to a friend's house to watch a movie with a bunch of people.
Um, it's, uh, it's not a party, but it's, uh, more than one person.
Be back by 12:00, okay, bud? You got it.
Hi.
What are you doing here? Why? Don't you want me here? No.
Of--of course.
You just surprised me.
Oh.
Were you going somewhere? Uh, no.
Movie's starting.
No butter? It's healthy.
We're not gonna wait.
Just start.
I'll be there in a second.
So, uh, you don't want to watch? No.
Not really.
What do you want to do, then? I don't know.
There's nothing to eat! What's this? A permission slip for a ski trip or something.
Oh.
You going? Well, I--I haven't really decided yet.
Uh, I don't know.
Eli Yeah? Is something wrong? I mean, did I do something? What do you mean? I don't know.
I mean, I just I feel like something's weird or something.
I--I don't know.
Can I have a hug? I just love you so much.
Okay, the movie is starting.
Bring the salt, will ya? My guidance counselor told my parents that I'm self-confident and focused which is the complete opposite of what I am.
You know how right before something bad happens everything just starts to slow down? Well it seems like that all the time lately.
And I know that I'm probably overreacting to, like, every little thing but I can't help myself.
And this was on your gynecological rotation? Yeah.
- Okay, it's not that funny.
- It is that funny.
No, I think you're just sleep-deprived.
Yeah, maybe.
Oh, God, I haven't stayed up all night like this since I was in law school.
I think this is a great proposal, Leo.
Yeah.
I think we work well together.
Oh, I've got to get going.
I've got to pick up my daughter.
How old are you? Oh, you really are socially inept.
Do you like doughnuts? Why, you going to say something about my thighs? No.
I was just thinking maybe we could, you know grab some breakfast or something to celebrate.
Oh, no, I--I've got to get going.
Wait.
Yeah? Okay.
Sit down.
Have some breakfast.
No, thank you.
Hello? Hey, Jen.
Uh, just-- Listen, I think he actually-- he stepped out for a second.
Have him call you back? Okay.
All right.
I'm so disgusted right now.
What was that all about? I have no idea.
She's a brat? Eli, you know what I'm talking about.
What's going on with Jennifer? I just didn't feel like talking to her.
I have see her every day.
Isn't that enough? Okay, that's fine.
I don't want to interfere.
The thing is Yeah? I mean, I still like her but--but she expects me to spend every minute of the day with her and sometimes I just want to do things without her, you know? Then she just shows up.
Maybe you should tell her how you feel.
I don't want to hurt her.
Girls her age are so sensitive.
And manipulative.
How-- how do you know when it's you know, when something's over? Eli you're 16.
You're 16.
You shouldn't--you shouldn't have to think in those terms.
You shouldn't have to feel that responsible for somebody.
It's noble, but, uh I really don't think it's necessary at this point in your life.
Dad I don't know what to do.
Look I think Jennifer's terrific.
I really do.
But you have to ask yourself what it is you really want.
Oh, my God, that's heinous.
Eat it, Lloyd! Oh, my God! That is so disgusting! Mom, did you see that? Here.
Eat something else, Lloyd.
What is this? You okay, Karen? Oh, yeah.
I'm just a little tired.
How long did you have to stay? Not too late.
Jess, I think this one's vegetable.
- No, it looks like fish.
- Really? How far did you guys get? Um, uh we--we finished.
That's great.
Can I have some sake? No! How about some Tsingtao? - No.
- No.
How did you even know about that? Do you have to work tomorrow? Lloyd, I told you we were finished.
Right.
Lloyd, did you know that this is how you get the splinters up? No, I didn't know that.
En garde.
Touché! I think you're right, Mom.
Lloyd does have a good sense of humor.
I forgot the orange juice.
Did I tell you that Eli was flirting with some bimbo at the video store last night? Jessie I think it's the same girl that called.
I'm pretty sure it was.
Why are you so invested in this? Because Eli is cheating on Jennifer-- you know, like, in his heart.
It's still cheating, isn't it? Yeah, but it's not fair to blame Eli when you may not know all the details, sweetie.
But still, how can somebody do that to someone? I don't know.
Sometimes things don't work out between people.
But Jennifer is so nice.
Do you think that Eli's gonna dump her? I don't know.
Shut the door.
Why are you taking Eli's side? Honey, I'm not taking anybody's side.
I'll never understand how some people can just all of a sudden stop being together.
I do-- I--I feel guilty about the divorce that my kids may never fully recover from it-- and part of me resents that, you know, I--I have to feel guilty about it at all.
And I feel like the worst thing I could do to my kids is to dwell in my own suffering, and I just wish I could stop.
Jessie, go tell Eli to come up here and pick up his things.
I'm telling you, we should get an intercom.
Eli! Wait.
What's this? Oh, yeah.
This one's great.
You have to hear this one song.
Mom Honey, what is it? Jessie? Hi.
Uh, Mom, this is, uh, Cassidy.
Hello.
Hi.
E.
, um, I need your help upstairs.
Okay.
I'm sorry if Jessie's freaking out, but I don't know what her problem is.
She's upset about Jennifer, about the way you're behaving.
Well, that's none of her business.
And you know what? It's not really any of your business either, Mom.
Okay, Eli, believe me, I don't want to be in the middle of a soap opera and I know this is your life right now but you need to do something or somebody's gonna get hurt.
Look, Mom, I am too young to feel responsible for someone.
What kind of crap is that? Dad and I talked about it.
Yeah, of course you did.
I What? Look, Eli, you need to do something about this.
Eli? I have to go.
Yeah.
Okay.
Bye, Mrs.
Sammler.
Bye.
Bye, Cassidy.
- It was nice meeting you.
- You too.
What is wrong with you? I won't stay in the same house as him! I won't.
He's wretched! - Wretched? How is any of this your business? - I'm not talking to you.
Look, you're a nut case.
Dad, I can't be expected to live like this.
Okay.
Okay.
I think it would be all right if you stay the night with me--just--just for tonight.
All right.
Okay.
Good.
I'll get my English homework, if I can remember where I put it.
I have homework.
This isn't a solution.
I know.
I know.
How did Eli's love life become a family crisis? Because this is what Jessie wants-- she wants us to be in the kitchen, worrying about her.
Well, I don't think we can blame her for--for wanting that.
No.
I But we let them manipulate us.
I don't let them manipulate me.
Are you kidding? You told Eli exactly what he wanted to hear about Jennifer.
I--I try to encourage Eli to make his own decisions.
I'm not just gonna tell him what to do.
Yeah, and you completely absolve him of any responsibility.
He thinks that being 16 means that there are no consequences, and-- That is entirely unfair.
Hello? I need to kiss you again.
I--I--I'm-- I'm gonna have to-- to get back to you on that.
Do you want to kiss me again? Well, that's something that we're-- that we'll have to talk about later.
You can't expect him to be perfect just because you never make any mistakes.
I think we're the same height.
Okay.
Um, so, I--I'll get back to you on that--on that.
- Okay.
- Good night.
Uh good night.
I think you set impossible standards and I think it's unfair to ask Eli to live up to them.
I'm not making a big dinner because there's you know, just the two of us, so Okay.
Okay.
- Thanks.
- Okay.
Mom? Yeah? I--I don't know how I'm gonna face Jennifer.
Oh, I don't know, E.
You know, I guess you just need to think about it and decide what you want to do.
Yeah.
Well what would you do? I know this may shock you but I--I don't actually have all the answers.
I--I know sometimes I act like I do but, you know, that's just because I feel that that's what a mother's supposed to do and I really have no idea what-- Mom.
Yeah? You're babbling.
I know.
This place is good but I have to say I'm partial to Flukey's which is the one over on Western.
It's all-beef dogs, of course and the mustard-- I don't know what they put in it, but But this is pretty good.
Do you like it? Yeah.
It's great.
I noticed that you didn't take the relish.
You don't like relish? Um, no, I--I do like relish.
I'm just not in a relish kind of mood today.
Fair enough.
You want some fries? No, no.
Anything to drink? Uh, no.
I'm fine.
Lloyd Yeah? I don't, um I, um don't think that I'm being fair to you.
I--I I mean, I just-- Karen, you don't have to say anything.
Well, I--I do need to be upfront with you.
I don't need you to be.
Uh Lloyd, I--I need to be able to say what's on my mind.
I just--I just-- Look.
I know you haven't been completely invested in this relationship.
Half the time, uh - you don't even hear what I'm saying.
- Lloyd It's okay.
You're a complicated person, and I'm not.
You have all these moods and--and-- and vestiges of colors and I--I watch you.
I love watching you.
You you just shine from inside and I see that.
I see that.
And I--I think you need to be with somebody like me because-- Well, not because I'm safe or I'm comfortable, but because you deserve to be adored.
Karen? Lloyd, I'm trying to-- I'm really sorry.
I just-- Have a nice day.
Hi.
You weren't in Physics.
I had the dentist.
Right.
There was no homework.
Mr.
Fleck went on a whole rampage about chaotic molecules.
It was like a real spectacle.
A spectacle.
Can we go someplace and talk? Why? Because I need to explain some things.
So you can get some things off your chest? So you can feel better? 'Cause I feel like hell right now, Eli and I don't think that that's fair.
Look, I--I never meant for any of this to happen.
I knew something was wrong.
Why couldn't you just talk to me? I wanted to.
I I--I don't know.
You can't just play games with people, Eli.
It hurts too much.
Jen I care about you so much, Jen.
I really, really need you as a close friend.
That would be convenient for you, wouldn't it? You could just hang out with me whenever you felt like it and then you could go do whatever you wanted whenever you wanted to.
Can we at least try to be mature about this? Oh, sure.
Real mature.
After everything.
After you lied to me.
You can't have it both ways.
Jennifer.
You still mean a lot to me.
Not as much as you mean to me.
What are you reading? A book.
Right.
Makes sense.
You should grow a beard.
Why? I don't know.
I just think it would look good.
And it would annoy Mom.
She would hate it.
I don't think Mom would care.
One like the Amish-- you know, without the mustache.
Where are those feet? Don't tickle the feet.
Don't tickle my feet.
Don't tickle my feet! Don't tickle--aah! Oh so you're feeling better, huh? Was I sick? You know what I mean.
I just think that Eli's a jerk and I'm entitled to my own opinion.
Well, you can't help how you feel.
And I'll probably never get to see Jennifer again.
You might.
Or you might not.
It's just that people act like there's something better out there and that's just so stupid.
I mean, we only have the people we have, right? So if we run from that we keep running from that and I know that people think I'm delusional or something but I know what's going on.
And I just think that people make things harder than they should be and they put themselves through this unnecessary torture for no apparent reason.
At least, to me.
You ready to hit the slopes? Yes.
What do you think? You like? Oh, yeah.
That's great.
Hey, Eli.
I'll be back, okay? Thanks.
Hey, butterball.
Quit it.
Stop.
Stop! What? - I did not hurt you.
- That hurt! - You're such a baby.
- It did hurt.
Don't you believe me? Stop!