(film reel whirring)
Let's be honest
I would
move mountains for you
Let's be honest
You still
won't give me the truth
Would it k*ll you
to be honest?
Let's be honest
Podcast host:
And studies have shown
that love is not only
good for your mental health,
but good for
your physical health as well.
Being in a loving relationship
actually alleviates stress,
even makes us
take better care of ourselves.
This could be due to
a healthier, happier outlook,
or taking care of
one's self for another's sake.
You in my bed
Gave you all of me
Everything wasn't enough
You handed me lies
and disguised it as love
Let's be honest
I would
move mountains for you
Let's be honest
You still
won't give me the truth
Would it k*ll you
to be honest?
Let's be honest...
Let's be honest
Morning.
- Good morning.
- Mm, Cafezinho!
- You want some?
- Of course!
- Any more news on tonight?
- Nothing concrete.
Tom has been
strangely mysterious.
- Which is a good sign, right?
- Mm.
I mean according to the experts.
No, yes, definitely.
But, you know
what just occurred to me
is that we haven't been
some place fancy for dinner
in a long time, which,
may mean he's saving money.
So, you know, check.
Wait.
Do you know anything?
Actually,
don't tell me anything.
No, wait.
Do tell me, so we can prepare.
(sighing) You know,
Mom is gonna want you to have
a Brazilian wedding with all
the little, traditional flairs.
Mm, that'd be so nice.
And all the dancing...
- More desserts...
- Oh!
We're getting
ahead of ourselves.
(laughing) I'm also excited
that this will take some
of Mamae's pressure off of me.
At last,
one of her precious daughters
will be walking
down the aisle.
Well, I'm happy
to be of service, JuJu!
- Have a good day.
- You too!
Good morning.
Morning, Carina.
The usual?
Yes, strawberry icing
with sprinkles, please.
By the way,
I loved your column yesterday:
10 Signs
He's Emotionally available.
It really got me thinking.
Thank you.
I'm glad to hear it.
Though, my favorite
is still your Real Life column
on your relationship with T.
- It's so inspiring.
- Thank you.
That's my favorite article too.
I like to think of it
as a love letter to him
and to my readers.
Here you go.
Thank you.
I'll see you tomorrow.
Both: Bye.
Kimberly: Hey, Carina.
Do you have a second?
Of course.
Okay, so, Cliff invited me
to dinner
with his parents on Saturday.
Ooh, that's a good sign!
Mm-hm, but I still
don't know if we're exclusive.
There's only
one way to find out.
But I don't want
to give him an ultimatum.
I don't wanna be "that girl.
It's about open communication.
Clearly expressing your wishes,
which, by the way,
can be a very attractive quality
to someone
who's secure and available.
Which is what you want, right?
Yes, secure and available.
Communication can be attractive.
Okay, got it.
Thanks so much, Carina!
Always!
Hello.
- Hi.
- You must be our new writer.
I am, yeah.
I'm Carina.
I'm a writer as well.
Oh, uh, Liam.
Nice to meet you.
Nice to meet you too.
(sighing)
Is everything okay?
Uh, yes, everything's fine.
It's just, uh,
you're drinking from my mug.
You know, for future reference.
Oh.
(laughing)
Yeah, so I am.
Ah! Oh, look!
There you are.
I'm sorry.
I thought
this was a stock photo.
Hm, huh.
Oh, who is this handsome fella?
That's my boyfriend, Tom.
He's a lawyer,
just made partner at his firm.
Right, well,
he has a very unimpeachably
handsome quality about him.
He's got a very square jaw.
Mm, he is
unimpeachably handsome.
He's unimpeachably
a lot of things, actually.
Of course he is.
And, sorry about the mug.
I didn't realize
that they were assigned.
Oh, yes, uh,
there's community to the left
and personal to the right.
Feel free to bring in your own.
That is definitely
something to consider.
So, what section
do you write for?
Love and Romance.
I actually am the section.
Oh, that sounds
like a sweet gig.
It is.
I love it.
- Must be pretty easy going.
- Easy going?
Oh, I just assumed
that all those listicles
were cut-and-pasted
from the rest of the Internet.
You know, "10 signs
that he really loves you?"
"Is he the one?"
I mean...
How many iterations
can there be, right?
Mm, I actually put a little bit
more into it than that.
Oh, of course, no,
I didn't mean to--
Though I suppose cheeky reviews
of men's razors, golf clubs,
and craft beer
are earth-shattering?
Well, I did win an OP award.
(sighing)
Well, we are clearly
super lucky to have you.
You want your mug back.
Don't you?
Yes.
I've always wanted to be
the "world's best grandpa.
See you at the writers' room.
Welcome to SparkLife!
Carina, you wanna catch us up
with Love and Romance?
I was thinking about
doing a piece on speed dating.
It's know
it's fallen to the wayside,
but I thought it'd be good
to take a look at again.
Maybe a listicle with tips.
- I like it.
- Oh, and the Me and T series
is ongoing.
There might be a significant
installment on the horizon.
Ooh!
Ronda:
We've got some new numbers in
and we're getting
a great response on Me and T.
Okay, then, last but not least,
I'm very excited to introduce
our new staff writer,
Liam Snyder.
You may know him from
his lauded work on HW Magazine,
or his humor piece
on men's shaving products
that went viral last fall.
Oh, I read that.
That was great!
Thank you.
Ronda: As we've been
discussing at SparkLife,
we have some catching up to do
in regards to male readership,
so we're hoping Liam
can help us with that.
I think it's best
if we maximize his value
by putting him
in our best performing section.
So, Carina,
I'm gonna put him with you.
- In Love and Romance?
- Yep.
To train him?
Mm, more
to collaborate with him.
Either way, I'm sure our
female readership can benefit
from a male point of view.
I mean, why wouldn't they?
Okay, let's get to work.
Mm.
- Thank you.
- Thanks.
I forgot to ask
for "no onions."
Not a problem.
As long as you have me,
you'll never have to look
at another onion again.
One of the many reasons
why we fit so well together.
That sounds like
one of your articles.
I guess so.
Oh!
Did you check on your schedule
for the twenty-first?
Yeah, yeah, I did, but it's
actually a tough week at work.
Any way you can go without me?
I suppose so.
You know, it's just,
as a romance columnist,
having my handsome,
beautiful boyfriend by my side
is a bonus.
Really?
As, uh, as proof?
As a specimen?
As the perfect specimen you are!
Oof.
Did you pick a time for tonight?
I'm still
ironing out some plans.
Okay.
Oh, do you want
some Brussel sprouts?
Oof!
You know I do.
- (knocking)
- Come in!
As I figured, you might be
knocking on my door.
Just wanted to debrief about
this change to Love and Romance.
And I'm guessing
you have some reservations.
Well, I'm just
looking out for SparkLife.
I mean, is this
really the best place
to put this exciting,
new writer?
I understand your concern,
Carina, but as readership grows,
and the site grows,
I'm gonna need more help
on the editorial side of things.
And, as our strongest writer,
of course
I have you in my sights.
But, I'm wondering
about your ability
to collaborate and delegate?
Oh, I love collaborating
and delegating!
Mm.
Mm-hm. (laughing)
(laughing nervously)
You're such a strong writer,
but I've never seen you
enlist help.
If I were you,
I would find a different way
to look at this situation.
Perhaps as a good opportunity
to demonstrate these skills.
- I suppose that makes sense.
- Ronda: Mm-hm.
It makes zero sense!
I don't understand why
they can't put this guy on,
like, sports or something.
Well, on the upside, it looks
like there might be a promotion
on the horizon.
But, enough about work.
Do you know where Tom
is taking you tonight?
Not yet, but, I'm dressed
for something fancy.
Oh, maybe we can combine
our anniversary party
with an engagement party
for the two of you!
(laughing) I don't want to steal
your and Dad's thunder.
By the way,
how's planning going?
Marisa: Oh, good.
You know your father.
I ask him
for his input on things,
and he says
"whatever makes you happy."
Well, I guess party planning has
never been his love language.
You're right.
You always are, (unclear).
- Bye-bye.
- Bye.
Honey, what's a five letter word
for "venom holder?"
- Snake.
- Oh, right, snake.
How's it goin'?
Good. Good, good.
Though, I've changed
my mind three times
about where to put these guys.
Every decision
feels so monumental.
I want it to be perfect.
You're opening your garden
to the community, Dad.
No one is demanding
that it be pristine.
Well, your mom would've.
Well, that's true,
but she was more decisive.
So, how was the new job?
Was it as easy
as you thought it was gonna be?
No, actually, it looks like
it's gonna be
a little more challenging.
Well, let's face it, you'd be
bored if it wasn't, right?
Don't laugh, but they put me
in the Love and Romance section.
Why would I laugh?
Is there anything
more worthwhile writing about?
They want a male perspective.
The woman I'm working with
is smart, but, uh,
she's territorial.
Well, maybe she has something
to teach you about the topic.
Or, maybe it can inspire you
to other writing projects, hm?
(sighing) I told you, Dad.
I'm done with that.
I don't wanna
waste any more time.
Liam, there's no such thing
as wasted time
on a creative endeavor.
Except, of course,
the time you spend not doing it.
You're never gonna let me
off the hook are you?
No, 'cause then
I'd be phoning in my job.
Here, let's, uh,
let's get to it.
- Hey!
- Hey.
Oh, am I too dressed up?
Should I go back and change?
No. No, no, it's all right.
I don't know why I thought
it was some place fancy.
I mean, romance doesn't
have to mean upscale, right?
Right.
Is everything okay?
Uh, all right,
I'll just come out and say it.
- I've been doing some thinking.
- Yes?
I'm sorry.
I can't hold this in any longer.
I-I-I just need it off my chest.
I think we should break up.
Wait! What?!
But, but, you were supposed
to propose to me tonight.
You've been cagey.
You've been nervous,
You've been...
We've been together
almost five years.
I mean,
all the signs lead to that.
I know, but I feel like we just
haven't been us for a long time.
You don't just break up
with someone out of the blue.
You're supposed to communicate.
You're supposed
to work through things.
- You're supposed to...
- Yes, you're supposed to.
Carina, I think
we're past that point.
I'm sorry,
but I thought you felt it too.
No.
I didn't.
This isn't how
it was supposed to go.
Now it's so messy
There are pieces of my heart
Around this city
like day-old confetti
I wish you would text me
Wish it were easy
to give an apology
So, good news.
I asked Cliff about
being exclusive, and he said,
"I thought we already were,"
which is such a relief.
So now I have dinner
with his parents on Saturday,
and I wondered
if you have any tips for me
about meeting the parents.
You know, do's and don'ts?
Uh...
Yeah, um...
I'm probably
just overthinking it!
Anyway, I just wanted to say
your advice helped so much.
You're, like,
a genius of the human heart!
Mm.
(sighing)
I just wanted
to communicate a slight change
to the Me and T series.
Mainly that there's,
uh, no more Me and T.
What?
Tom broke up with me last night.
Oh, I'm so sorry to hear that!
It's just I'm gonna be bringing
the same level of expertise
to my work.
This is only a slight hiccup.
Okay, honey.
I'll be finding a replacement
for the M and T series,
as I know this is
very important to the site.
Would you... would you like
to take a few days off?
Maybe... maybe let Liam
run with the column.
Maybe a, you know,
a special edition?
No!
What I mean is, um,
I already planned on
bringing him onto
the speed dating piece.
Very good.
But, I'm... I'm gonna insist
that you take at least
the rest of the day off.
No, it's...it's really okay.
No, I just...
I just insisted.
Okay!
How could I have been
this off base?
This is literally
my area of expertise!
You know, I went back
to look at my old columns
to make sense of it all,
and I compared 9 Signs
He's Going to Propose
with 10 Signs
The Relationship is Ending
and there's literally
60 percent overlap.
What if I don't know
what I'm talking about?
Love is complicated.
I mean, people are messy.
But it's not supposed
to be messy for me!
Honey, I know.
Come on.
- Let's go.
- (sighing)
(Dad clearing throat)
So, where is Tom?
Tom broke up with me.
I can't believe it!
I'm sorry, sweetheart.
Are you okay?
I don't know.
I'm still in a bit of shock.
Do you want me to text him?
Get to the bottom of it?
No, no, no,
I know we all got close,
but I ask you guys
not to communicate with him.
I think you're
doing the right thing.
Lamento muito, filha.
Obrigada, Mamae.
What about that thing?
The thing we were gonna ask.
No.
No, we'll wait.
No, we talked
about it yesterday.
- I was gonna--
- What thing, guys?
- Nothing, filha.
- Mm.
Your mom and I have decided
to renew our vows at our party.
And we wanted to ask you
if you would do us the honor
of maybe giving a speech.
That's a wonderful idea.
And maybe it'll help you
get your mind off of things.
But, we also understand
if this is the last thing
you'd like to do
during this difficult time.
But, that being said,
who better than
a renowned romance columnist
who also happens
to be our brilliant daughter?
I would love to.
I'm not going to stop
believing in love, right?
Podcast host:
Welcome to In This Together.
Inspiring stories of love
told by normal folks
like you and me.
This is episode one forty-three.
Stops and Starts.
Today, we speak to Paige
from Cleveland.
Before she and her husband
got married,
he tried
to end the relationship.
But Paige knew he was wrong
and made a decision
to fight for their love.
Hm. Mm.
Dee-dee-dee-dee-dee-dee-dee
- Good morning.
- Morning.
You look like
you're feeling spritely.
I've come to a conclusion,
a determination.
When have you known me to give
up on something I really wanted?
Never.
Like when I didn't get the job
at SparkLife at first,
I kept submitting,
even though they weren't
accepting applications.
I love this about you,
but are we talking--
Relationships hit bumps on the
road all the time.
I should know this!
Look, Tom made a mistake
when he ended our relationship.
But people make mistakes, right?
So, I can either accept this
and our relationship
fades into oblivion.
Or, I can fight for love!
All right.
I'm going to get Tom back.
So, this thing starts at eight?
Yep.
I didn't think speed dating
was even a thing anymore.
It's the perfect place
to start our collaboration.
It utilizes one of my favorite
aspects of the column:
field research.
By the way, I read up
on your column last night,
and I have to say,
there was a surprising amount
of depth in the pieces.
Surprising?
Oh, you think
this is gonna be easy.
I-I-I wasn't trying
to insult what you do.
I liked your column.
Especially Me and T.
Definitely keep that going.
That's, uh, being
put on pause at the moment.
Are things
on the rocks with
the "unimpeachably
squared jaw" Tom?
And what if they were?
Were you going to say,
"Oh, Carina,
you should have seen it coming"?
Or, how about "10 signs he's
going to break up with you"?
He broke up with you?
- Mm-hm.
- Wow.
Well, I mean,
you're doing great.
I would've at least
taken a sick day.
Anyway,
I see this as temporary.
We'll be back together soon.
Carina: Thank you.
So, how's this goin' down?
Are we gonna observe?
Conduct some interviews?
Nope.
We'll be participating.
Wait.
What?
It's a perfect opportunity
to get the male perspective.
Is this some sort of
a hazing thing?
It's the job!
My approach is one
of diligent preparation.
I have compiled a list
of questions I've researched
some ice breakers,
some indicators of your
date's goals and priorities.
I printed a copy for you
if you like.
It's just occurred to me.
You've been out of
the dating game for a while,
haven't you?
(laughing)
I don't need your study guide.
These things
are about instincts,
being natural.
They're not job interviews
Suit yourself.
(bell dinging)
So, where are you from?
What were you like as a kid?
Hi, hi, I'm, uh, I'm Liam.
Yes, I can see that
from your name tag.
(laughing)
Yeah, right.
Silly me.
Oh, if you could travel
anywhere in the world,
where would it be?
I, um...
Is there a right and wrong
answer to this question?
What's your biggest fear?
Tests.
(bell dinging)
Oh, thank God.
(sighing) This dating life
is nerve-wracking, right?
Yeah, kind of is.
So I'll cut
straight to the chase.
I told myself that
I'd be married by 35,
which is in a month.
Everything's already planned.
The wedding here,
honeymoon in Maui.
You like Maui, right?
What's your favorite snack?
Shh!
Words ruin everything.
Let's communicate
with our eyes only.
Interesting.
Um...
Shh.
Well, you're very organized.
Like, "I wanna marry you"
organized?
- (laughing)
- (laughing nervously)
Mm.
(bell dinging)
Carina:
All right, let's debrief.
There's a number of ways
we could go about the piece.
We could do a list.
15 Tips on Successful
Speed Dating?
First off, I'm not sure
why we would encourage anyone
to go through that.
It's about perspective
and approach.
It's about putting
yourself out there
with the help of our tips.
See, I don't... I don't get
why we can't just call it
like it is.
I saw you out there.
You were struggling.
Oh. You're that guy.
Oh, boy!
Okay, here we go.
What "that guy?"
You're that guy
who goes out there
"calling it like it is."
You have
this veneer of integrity.
Yet you're out there
calling little judgements,
rejecting everything.
You just skate on the surface,
never challenging yourself
or letting yourself
be vulnerable.
All while getting by
on your humor and charm.
You see,
what I gleaned from all that
is that you find me
funny and charming.
My point exactly.
Don't mind me
while I get back to work.
What if we write about
what you've been going through?
Your break up.
I'm sure you have something
singular and interesting
to say about that.
That's off-tone for the site.
Earlier, you said that
the situation was temporary.
Are you trying to get him back?
Would that be so wrong?
Well, it's of
my personal philosophy
that if somebody leaves,
they've made their point.
Mm.
Why do you want
Tom back so badly?
Tom is wonderful.
He's kind.
He's a gentleman.
But mainly, we have history.
We helped each other through
the early parts of our careers,
through the ups,
through the downs.
His family's like my family
and vice versa.
He's a big part of my life
and I'm just
not ready to let that go.
I mean, it can't have been
for nothing, right?
That's not unreasonable.
All right, so what's your plan?
I'm going to find out
what went wrong and fix it.
Like a car, or a broken toaster?
Hm.
See, this is your problem.
Oh, you know me two days
and you know my problem?
Yeah, see, 'cause you're
too trapped in that busy brain
of yours
that you can't see clearly.
What if I helped you
get him back?
Oh, I'm fine on my own.
Thank you.
(laughing) Because you're
an expert on the topic?
I didn't wanna say so, but, yes.
No, you see, this is one time
where being an expert
actually hurts you.
Let me help you.
If for no other reason
but to prove to you
that I can do this job,
and that I'm not
completely clueless
about the human heart.
But this isn't
part of the column.
It would be like
a side project, right?
Liam: Exactly.
Huh.
I don't see the harm.
- Deal.
- Deal.
To help us out,
I compiled a list of things
that could've gone wrong,
things that I could've done,
underlying circumstances,
acts of God,
et cetera, et cetera.
You see, this is what's
standing in your way.
Everything is a list,
or a b*llet point,
or a little box you can check
like there's a right way
to go about everything.
This is the death of romance.
Okay, you need to connect
with your... your instincts,
your passion.
You need to leave room
for these feelings.
Mm-hm.
But for now, we just need
to re-engage contact, okay?
Did you bring the stuff?
Soccer ball lamp, okay.
All right, now, to recap,
we're not contacting Tom
to rehash, okay?
I know you want answers,
but now is not the time.
You simply have
some of his things.
You want them
out of your apartment.
It's a courtesy to him,
very la-di-da.
But I don't feel "la-di-da,"
and I don't like games.
I think they're dishonest.
The column doesn't support them
and I don't support them.
This isn't
about the column, okay?
And the games are already there.
You just need to use them
to your advantage.
Right now, you're just
opening the door a cr*ck,
reminding him of the Carina
that he fell in love with.
Do you have the text?
Yes.
(clearing throat)
Hey, Tom, exclamation mark.
Ooh, no.
Um, an em dash.
Hey, Tom, em dash,
I have some of your things
at my place, period.
Tidying up,
and would love to--
Would like to.
Would like to
pass them off, period.
Please let me know
when and where.
Period.
I'm not sure about the "please"
Well, I think it's polite,
but just not "warm polite."
No, you're right.
You're right.
Okay.
Sending.
- (phone sounding)
- (sighing)
Okay, so, and you have what
you're gonna say at the ready?
I'm going to be brief.
I'm going to find a way
to bring up a road trip.
Which will remind him
of an earlier, better time.
It was a happier time.
Carina: Okay, he responded.
He'll drop by the lobby
at 3:00 PM.
(gulping)
Remember, this is,
at least, a mild inconvenience.
Mm-hm
Hey.
- Hey.
- Thanks for coming.
Thanks for saving my stuff.
Um, how are you?
Okay, you know,
taking things day by day.
Uh, I might go
on a road trip this weekend.
- Oh, a road trip?
- Mm-hm.
- Oh.
- Yeah.
Uh, sorry to be brief.
I-I have a meeting coming up.
So, I should,
you know, get going.
Um, okay,
I'll just take this stuff then.
- Yeah, um.
- No, let me get it.
Yeah, um, yeah,
hold on one second.
I just have a quick question.
Like, was it...
Is it something I said
or something I did that--
Hey, uh, Carina.
Ronda needs you in her office.
It's an emergency.
You know,
a romance listicle emergency.
- Sorry to interrupt.
- Bye!
- I know.
- It's okay.
Rome wasn't built in a day.
Oh, sick.
I missed this thing.
Marisa: I want
to narrow down the brigadeiros
to four flavors.
So please be honest.
You're doing an entire table?
Your father said it was the
favorite part of his wedding.
Second favorite part.
Oh, uh, do you guys
have anything you want
to contribute to the ceremony?
Other than
our original vows, no.
Do anything you like.
Do you want something
lighthearted, traditional,
more serious?
You're the expert!
Well, what about
excerpts from literature?
The greats?
As long as the greats
include the greatest of great,
- which is you.
- (others laughing)
Mm!
I love the pistachio.
- Ah, thank you.
- This one.
Are you okay with all this?
This isn't making you sad?
How could
brigadeiros make me sad?
Desserts are a happy thing.
Yeah, of course,
desserts are a happy thing.
- Yeah.
- I love them.
- The pink one is good.
- The pink one is good.
(chattering indistinctly)
I don't wanna
get anyone's hopes up,
but things might not
be finished between Tom and I.
Dad: You guys are speaking?
We spoke today.
Be careful, filha.
We're not getting
ahead of ourselves.
It's just a possibility.
Um, have you tried
the pink one yet?
- It's so tasty.
- It's really good.
It's got like
a caramel flavor to it.
I do like that pistachio though.
- Right, Dad?
- Is that one the best one?
So, if Tom wants
to get back together with you,
are you gonna take him back?
Of course.
(laughing)
I was thinking
that maybe this time apart
could give you an opportunity
to reflect on things.
Reflect on what?
Well, it occurred to me
the other day
that it had been a while
since I'd seen you...
I don't know.
Lit up about Tom.
A long while, actually.
I mean, I could be wrong.
Even the best relationships
can't all be like epic novelas
and that honeymoon-phase
all the time.
But there should be glimmers,
you know?
I mean,
take Mamae and Dad for example.
That's a crushingly
high standard.
(both laughing)
I just want the best
for my little sister.
I can't help but like the idea
of something new and unexpected
ahead for you.
Well, what's wrong
with a new, exciting chapter
with Tom?
Nothing.
There you are.
- Oh, good morning.
- Good morning.
Um, I had to guess,
so I got you classic glazed.
Thought it was a good choice
for a no nonsense kinda guy.
You should write a listicle
matching guys to doughnuts.
Uh, plain glazed,
doesn't stand on ceremony.
While sugar coated,
ironically,
doesn't sugar coat anything.
More than meets the eye.
Secretly the best.
Not humble.
(both laughing)
I don't wanna know.
So,
what's on the docket for today?
Well, I thought we could put
speed dating on the back burner
and we could work on
15 Unique Date Ideas.
Right, simpler, less argument
over philosophical approach.
So, this is one of them?
Date on a park bench.
No, no,
we're going pedal boating.
- Okay.
- Mm-hm.
Can't we just save time,
use our imaginations,
not get our butts wet?
And copy information
from the Internet?
- Ah, touche.
- Mm.
The life jackets
are a little much, no?
It's a necessary
but easy precaution.
Makes everyone relax.
I should jot that down.
Life jackets, check.
- Ready?
- Yes.
- Okay.
- Okay.
Carina: So, let's start
with the pros and the cons.
Okay.
- It's playful, whimsical.
- Hm.
- The outdoors are a plus.
- Mm-hm.
Uh, figuring out the steering,
the pedaling's
a shared activity,
like a project,
which is always a good idea.
I don't know that
the steering or pedaling
are all that complicated.
(sniffing)
This life jacket smells musty.
We're not in the cons yet.
No, I know.
I'm just spit balling.
Okay, well,
the physical proximity,
you know, could be a good thing
in that early nervous stage.
Could also be a con.
I mean, what if
the person is shy?
Then this awkward.
Why are you contradicting
everything I say?
I'm not contradicting.
This is... this is discourse.
- No, no.
- It's analysis.
You're literally contradicting
everything I'm saying.
- No, no, no, I'm not.
- I'm saying "Start with a pro."
You start with a con.
You're like, "No, no, no."
That's not what you said.
You said, "Let's start
with the pros and cons."
- Yeah, yeah.
- Which is what I'm doing.
But it's not supposed to be a--
Wait.
Why are we heading
straight towards the fountain?
I don't know!
Why are you steering us there?
- I'm not steering.
- Ah, your book!
- What are you doing?
- I'm not doing anything!
- No, no, reverse, reverse!
- (screaming)
(others laughing)
- (screaming)
- Oh, my God!
Oh, my God, oh, my God!
Steer right, no left.
Oh, God!
- Oh.
- Oh, sh*t.
(both laughing)
Well, I guess we just learned
a very important lesson
in communication.
You know what?
I think I'm gonna give
pedal boat dates my endorsement.
You get to learn, early on,
what each other's
conflict style's gonna be.
(laughing)
Thank you
for saving my notebook.
You're welcome.
I'm sure you have a whole list
of things and ideas,
but do I get
any say in the dates?
I don't see why not.
'Cause I have a great idea
that will double
for our listicle
and may even help you
in your Tom-related endeavor.
Hm?
(sighing)
Let me get this straight.
You have all this gear here
in case
of any fishing emergency.
My dad and I like to fish.
Here, put this on.
- It's gonna get cold.
- Thank you.
And put these one.
It's gonna get muddy.
This is one way
to get the male perspective.
I'm literally
putting myself in your shoes.
I have a confession to make.
I haven't fished in a long time,
so I might need
a primer on casting.
- Sure.
- Okay.
You hold the line
with your index finger here.
And, flip the bale back there.
Pull back and release.
Whoa!
It's like riding a bike.
All right, pros and cons
of fishing as a date.
Well, you can't
b*at the ambiance.
So, what does this
have to do with Tom?
Are you saying
"teach a man to fish,"
or "there are
many fish in the sea"?
The thing about fishing,
for me, at least,
is...
it's not about
catching a bunch of fish.
About being in the moment.
You know,
staring out at the water,
looking at the reflection,
yeah, feeling the wind
on your face.
It's not about
what may or may not happen.
It's about right now.
All right, Captain Zen,
so, what does that mean for me?
I can't be with Tom "in the now"
because Tom is in the "then."
I guess what I'm saying is,
it's so easy to be wrapped up
in how things should be
that we forget to be
in the present.
For example,
how great is it
that right now,
in the name of research,
we are fishing
on SparkLife's dime?
(laughing)
That's like when you go
to open a fortune cookie
and looking for
all the answers to your problems
and all it says is
"Your fortune
is in another cookie."
(laughing) Maybe.
With all the wisdom
and perspective,
where is the big love
in your life?
Just because I'm super qualified
doesn't mean I'm required
to jump in the game.
Mm-hm.
- Oh, ooh!
- Ah!
I got a bite!
I got a bite!
Wait.
Oh, wait.
I might be lying.
Oh, nope.
That's nothing.
That's just a twig.
What are you talking about?
Mini golf is the best!
There's this one time,
a long time ago,
things got scary competitive.
Why does that not surprise me?
Okay. How about bowling?
Points for potential
double dates.
Yeah, but then
you gotta rent the shoes
and you spray them
with the stuff.
Oh, and being by a pond
getting rugged with nature
is acceptable?
Okay, fishing was great.
You loved it.
Don't deny it.
Fine.
I won't deny it.
Let's try and find
a few indoor options.
I have an idea
if you'll humor me.
This is my favorite
book store of all time.
Didn't you
just move here though?
Well, yeah, from New York,
but I grew up in Chicago.
My Dad still lives here.
I used to come here
all the time back in high school
when I one day
dreamed of being a famous--
Writer for the internet.
(laughing)
You know, I like
the personal connection but,
as a dating spot, it's kind of
limited time-wise, space-wise.
There aren't
a lot of activities.
Oh, you are wrong about that.
Oh, look.
Gardening!
Did I tell you that my mom
was a master gardener?
No, you didn't.
Wait.
Was?
She passed away
a couple years back.
I'm sorry to hear that.
Actually, she taught my dad and
now he's really running with it.
Anyway, see?
There's conversation starters
everywhere, also,
the perfect stage
for cute, romantic hijinks.
Please observe!
Hey!
Fancy seeing you here.
Hi.
This is only for the bold.
Two potential lovebirds
may happen upon
a classic book of poetry
and find a little inspiration.
"Shall I compare thee
to a summer's day?
Thou art more--"
What?
What is it?
Nothing!
Oh, hey, look at this!
Wait.
Liam, you have a book?
You have a novel?
Alison Morgan lauded as
"a stunning and heartbreaking
exploration of love and memory."
And a total flop.
Whoa, what are you doing?
Okay, forget the book.
There's no book.
Don't you want people to buy it?
No.
Really, I don't.
I don't understand.
It was a long time ago,
practically a different life.
Let's just
forget about the book, okay?
What are you working on?
You know,
just not writing
a novel that was published.
Seriously,
what are you working on?
I am writing,
or trying to write,
my parents'
vow renewal ceremony.
Seems like a job
you were made for.
It seems.
And I'm having a very hard time.
What do you got so far?
- Yeah.
- Awesome.
It's a nice notebook.
I keep it with me everywhere.
I'm terrified I'll have,
like, the perfect thought,
and then
it'll disappear forever.
(laughing)
You're a responsible writer
that way.
I should take a page out of
your book and get one of these.
What's this?
"Truths About Love"
Ongoing list I have.
It's personal.
It evolves.
Perennial reference.
Guidelines, huh?
- Truths.
- Yep.
And no fair
critiquing my diary.
(both laughing)
Well, maybe we should
discuss phase two
of Operation Get Tom Back.
I actually
forgot about that for a second.
That's good.
It is?
Yeah,
it'll put you in a position
to be more confident.
Right.
All right,
our next move is a classic one.
A little intrigue,
a little dress-up.
You know, you don't really
need my fashion help.
You're adorable.
You have this perfect,
professional, vintage,
chic thing going on.
I need a second opinion,
and I need help
getting out of my comfort zone.
I need to find something
"surprising and irresistible."
Why the air quotes?
Who are we quoting?
Liam. My work colleague.
Ooh, tell me about
this "work colleague."
No, no, this is not
an air quote type of situation.
Okay?
This is about getting Tom back.
And Liam's helping me.
Oh.
We are orchestrating
a "run into Tom looking
carefree and irresistible."
Pique his interest,
cause him to re-evaluate.
I thought
we didn't like playing games.
I thought
you preferred honesty.
I do.
It's just
to get back in the door.
We can work
on the hard stuff later.
Well, while I don't
fully endorse this mission,
I will always endorse
a game of dress-up!
All right, show me
what you're thinking.
That's pretty.
Pretty... bad.
(laughing)
All right, I've been
waiting for this moment.
- Move aside.
- Okay.
Ah, no, no, no, no, no, no.
Shush, shush,
shush, shush, shush.
You bought this
in Sao Paulo six years ago
and have been hand-wringing
trying to find
the perfect time to wear it.
There's never gonna be
a perfect moment.
So I say,
"Now, is the perfect moment."
(laughing)
Fine!
- (laughing)
- Fine.
Okay, Carina, Liam,
why don't you catch us up
with where you're at?
So we have enough
for an extended listicle,
and to really
dig into each date idea,
have fun with metaphors,
wordplay like "rocky boat."
Yeah, "casting a net,"
"getting your feet wet."
And at first glance,
I thought the list
would be straightforward,
but then our views
have diverged from time to time.
So I think they're be
a little rebuttal at the bottom.
Sort of
a he said she said angle.
- I love it!
- Mm-hm.
What do you think?
That will work.
Not too much?
Not at all.
(both laughing)
Um, so we know that Tom
walks from his office to the gym
every day on Dearborn Street,
so all we have to do
is time it right.
I'm gonna send you
a text when he leaves.
You're gonna walk south.
Inevitably, the two of you
are gonna cross paths.
It's gonna feel
completely coincidental.
- Okay?
- Right.
He is gonna see you
looking absolutely gorgeous.
And, so,
you'll stop
and, and, talk, 'cause
that's the polite thing to do.
Um...
This is the best part.
It's gonna appear as if
you're going on a date,
but, but, you're not gonna,
you're not gonna tell him that.
In fact,
you're protecting his feelings.
This is gonna
take a little acting.
Okay, turn around.
Face me.
Close your eyes.
(laughing)
Just envision.
You'll be so surprised
when you run into Tom today
because you haven't
even thought about him.
Why?
Because you met someone new.
Someone unexpected.
And... and this new guy,
he really sees you
and appreciates you
for who you are.
Right, all your lists,
and your love for your work,
and your diligent note keeping,
and, uh, and your doughnuts
with pink icing and sprinkles.
(laughing)
Anyway, uh, this is the man
you'll be on your way to see
when you run into Tom.
I guarantee he'll text you
by tomorrow night for a coffee.
Got it, coach.
(phone chiming)
Carina?
Tom!
- Hi.
- Hey, you look amazing.
Thanks, I'm just on my way
to this dinner thing.
How are you?
I've had this dress
for six years
and I don't know why
I've been saving it for so long.
Anyway, I'm rambling.
But you must be
on your way to the gym.
- Endorphins.
- Yeah, yeah, I'm good.
- I'm good, good.
- Good, good.
Anyways, I'm running late.
Wonderful to see you.
Uh... okay.
So, how'd it go?
Good, I think.
Good. Ah, that's great.
It feels a little
anti-climactic.
I'm all dressed up
and nowhere to go.
Uh, well,
we could go grab a bite,
the two of us maybe?
Okay!
Both: Mm!
I think Nicky B's might be
the best pizza on the planet.
Ooh, be careful.
You don't wanna
say that to my mom.
I'm assuming
you haven't had Brazilian pizza?
There's Brazilian pizza?
Oh, yeah.
It's a big point of pride.
I have my favorite place
in Bucktown.
- I'll take you.
- I'd like that.
Liam: This will kick off
phase three of our plan.
Enough of this Tom drama.
Let's shake things up and
talk about Liam for a second.
Why don't we talk about that
whole Brazilian pizza thing?
I wanna know more about you.
Like, why aren't
you out there dating?
Or, more about your book,
or why you don't want
people buying it.
The book.
(sighing) Well,
I worked on it for a long time.
You know, poured a lot into it.
You know, took some risks
with writing style.
Even though
it received critical praise,
it totally bombed.
I had a serious relationship
that ended around the same time.
It was my fault,
but it didn't make it
hurt any less.
So, I picked up the gig at HW
and really leaned into my humor
and everyone
seemed to love it,
so I just went with it.
And, uh,
it was actually kind of easy.
A relief.
Then, last year,
I decided to stir things up,
and move back here,
take that s*ab
at a second novel,
quickly failed at that attempt.
tried to get my old job back,
but it was already gone,
and, well,
you know the rest.
Now you're here writing about
love and romance
at our little website.
It's not so bad.
How's your parents'
ceremony going?
Uh, I'm not deflecting.
I honestly wanna know.
I'm feeling really stuck.
I mean,
who am I to write about love?
What do I know?
I'm running around
playing dress-up.
I didn't see my break-up coming.
I'm feeling very unqualified.
- That's Not true.
- You said so yourself.
My b*llet points,
my study guides,
my being bad at "now-ness."
I have a lot to fix.
No!
Not for me.
I think some of what I said may
have come across the wrong way.
I know we have
to play these games
in order to open the door
for Tom but...
I...
It's not my preference.
I think there's value in the way
you engage with everything.
You know, you att*ck it.
You analyze it.
You try to understand it.
What I'm saying is that...
I'm learning a lot from you.
For SparkLife
Thank you.
I'm learning a lot from you too.
(phone chiming and buzzing)
It's a text from Tom.
Said he wants
to meet for coffee.
He's been
thinking about things.
See? Success!
I came broken and confused
You came battered,
a little bruised
We're just two used toys
Trying to love louder
than the noise
You had me under your spell
Now I'm going through Hell
(phone ringing and buzzing)
Hey!
Trent, long time, no talk.
How's life at HW?
Oh, these city lights
They feel way too bright
And I haven't been sleeping
too well at night
So I pick up the phone
Leave another message
at the tone
Hope you're doing well
Hope your family's fine
Hope you think about me
at least sometimes
I know timing
makes all the difference
But I don't see why
We can't go the distance
You seem especially quiet today.
- I got a call from HW.
- What?
They're, uh...
There's a job opening, and...
Contributing editor,
it's a bigger position.
They want me to come back.
Sounds like there's a "but."
Doesn't feel like
the obvious choice anymore.
Hm.
You know, and it's been really
great living close to you again
and helping you with all this.
Sure, yeah, there are
lots of pluses to living here.
I told them I needed
some time to think about it.
And how are things going
in the Love and Romance job?
Yeah, they're going all right.
And the woman
you're collaborating with?
Things have become
more amicable.
You know,
we've gotten into a groove.
Oh.
I'm also helping her
get her ex-boyfriend back.
- Why?
- I don't know.
I think I was trying
to prove something at the time.
That's not
a great reason, kiddo.
No.
It's not.
(laughing)
- Ah, and I am out!
- (grunting)
- Again?
- Again!
We win again. (laughing)
(grunting)
Gimme your cards.
Okay, I finally figured out
the main portion
of the ceremony.
I'm stringing together
excerpts with love poems,
chapters to your love story.
I'll e-mail you guys tonight.
No, absolutely not.
I want it to feel
like magic, spontaneous.
That being said, I do need
to finalize the RSVP's.
Any last minute plus one
for any of you ladies?
Okay.
(chuckling)
Uh, I'll keep my plus one,
if it's not too late
- Oh?
- Ooh!
- Oh!
- Ooh!
It's not for Tom.
It's for a work colleague.
And I think it would be
good field research
for him
to observe you lovebirds.
Great, Carina!
Minha princesa.
- Plus one.
- (others laughing)
It's not a "plus one" plus one.
It's just a... plus one.
It sounds like a plus one.
- Right.
- Julia: Sure.
- Can we deal again please?
- Yes, please.
And we're gonna
b*at you this time.
- No, I need to win again.
- No!
So, how's the mission
to get Tom back going?
Good, actually.
The whole
"breezy irresistible" plan
kinda worked.
Told you. The dress!
Tom texted actually saying he's
been "thinking about things.
I have to say, I thought
you'd be a bit more excited
about the turn of events.
I don't seem excited?
- (phone chiming)
- Oh!
Well, now you seem excited.
Well, no, it's not Tom.
It's the, uh, work guy.
We have this funny thread
going back and forth
of cheesy puns
about the article.
"Get a read on your date
at the bookstore.
- (chuckling)
- Anyway, it's dorky.
Oh, which reminds me, I have
something I have to check out.
- Do you wanna join?
- Of course!
- Okay.
- Thanks for cake.
Woo!
Wow!
This place is cute.
Pretty great, right?
Are you looking
for something specific?
Yes, I've been meaning
to read this book.
You've been meaning
to read that book?
Mm-hm.
That one randomly tucked
all the way up there?
- Yes.
- Uh-huh.
- Yeah, so?
- Yeah?
Just another night
A past life
that you've been hiding
Red flags that act
Like I can't see
And they're closing in
On me
Don't think
I can do this anymore
Can't take any less
No, I need more
The lost boys are sad boys
Are sus boys
Keep losing my mind
over the wrong boys
They don't love me
I don't know why they would
They don't need to love me
To feel good
So use me
then tell me I'm crazy
Use me,
I'm used to it, baby
And you text me at three AM
Saying you need a friend
Step inside once more
Good morning.
What's going on with you?
I spent all night reading
my work colleague's book
and it's just amazing.
It's... It's lyrical.
It's tender.
It's full
of beautiful observations.
It's... it's surprising.
Is this the same
"work colleague"
who's helping you get Tom back?
Yes, but that's
besides the point.
I-I just don't know
how I didn't see it.
I just kept seeing him
as a bad fit for the column.
Sure, "the column."
And it turns out
he's one of the best writers
I've ever read.
Hey.
Hey there.
Um, I got you something.
Just a little something.
You mentioned earlier
you wanted to get better
at jotting down notes.
So I thought
why not start now?
It's very silly.
I can take it back.
What?
No, no, I love it.
It's perfect.
Okay. Cool.
(clearing throat)
If you're free Saturday,
would you wanna come
to my parents'
anniversary party?
Oh, uh...
I guess you have a vacant
plus one then, huh?
No, no, I just I thought it
might be good field research.
You know,
the vow renewals and all.
And, uh, maybe fun?
Yeah, um, that sounds nice.
It's a...
It's a date.
There's Love and Romance.
- I didn't...
- Hm?
I'm saying,
"Here you are, my writers, from
the Love and Romance section."
- Yes.
- Oh. (clearing throat)
Here we are.
Mm-hm.
Could I see
the two of you in my office?
- Mm-hm.
- Mm-hm, mm-hm.
Mm-hm, good.
I just want to say, again,
You did amazing work
on the 15 Unique Dates piece.
But.
But, we got a ton of e-mails
about the sudden drop off
in the Me and T column.
Oh.
Ronda: The series was a bigger
favorite than I thought.
You know, the listicles
and date tips are fun,
but we need something
with more oomph.
And I've been trying to think of
a way of moving forward with it
to keep with
the "real life," theme,
but also be inspirational.
But, the "real life" story
ended in
an unexplained break-up.
But maybe not permanently?
I mean, maybe it's a story
about fighting for love?
Getting him back.
Or, it could be a story
about, you know, letting go.
Moving on.
Starting anew?
Hm.
All nascent ideas,
just brainstorming.
I think there are
many ways we can go.
Either tying up
the Me and T storyline,
or replacing it with
something equally impactful,
but I need something soon.
So you can either submit pitches
separately or together.
Whichever way you like.
My instinct
is to submit together.
Yeah, they say
"Two heads are better than one."
- Off, you go.
- Okay.
A story of "letting go,
starting anew"?
Sorry, I got a little
overzealous in there.
Didn't know you felt that way.
Oh, I was just spitballing.
You know, we've got out plan.
We're on track to get Tom back.
Hm.
Uh, how do you
feel about that anyway?
I think the plan's working.
My coffee date
with Tom is tomorrow.
And you'll be proud to know
that he asked to do it today,
but I said I was too busy.
I also made him
come to my side of town.
The student
has become the master.
Mm-hm.
(laughing)
Oh, we have
our work cut out for us
to find a Me and T replacement.
Do you wanna meet up later?
No, actually, I can't.
I have to help my dad.
But, you could come there?
And we could brainstorm
while I work?
I could swing that.
- Great.
- Great.
- Hello.
- Well, hello yourself.
- You must be Carina.
- Yeah, hi.
I'm Liam's dad.
Milton.
- Nice to meet you.
- Nice to meet you, Carina.
I've heard a lot about you.
What? No, you haven't.
- (Milton laughing)
- Good things I hope.
Nothing about me being
an intractable tyrant?
Milton: (laughing)
Good things only!
This is really beautiful,
Milton.
Thank you, Carina.
It is a hobby that has gotten
completely out of control.
Ah, he's just being modest.
He's opening this place
up to the community soon.
It's like a park
or a botanical garden.
- It's a big deal.
- Carina: Oh.
In honor of Liam's mother.
We used to collaborate.
She taught me everything I know.
Well, look, it's time
for this old gardener
to take a little break.
I'll leave you two to it.
- It's lovely to meet you.
- You too.
- Shall we?
- Yes, we shall.
Liam: (sighing)
What about a letter to readers
just bringing
everything down to earth?
You know,
coming clean about Tom.
Oh, not that again.
Just say it the way it is?
Well, if you can be real
when things are going well,
why can't you be real
when they aren't?
My readers look to me
for guidance and inspiration,
not sulking and navel gazing.
It's a moot point anyway,
because we don't know how
the situation's gonna turn out.
It's murky.
Narratively.
What about you?
Any fun, personal stories
you wanna get into?
Not especially.
What about
your parents' ceremony?
I can't even write it.
Much less write
about writing it.
(sighing) My brain hurts
Mine too.
I have an idea.
Follow me.
Okay.
Whenever I'm stuck creatively,
I...
It's helpful, to, you know,
do something tactile.
Being in the now?
But with dirt?
Yeah, you joke, but,
yeah, that's pretty much it.
It's really nice of you to help
your dad with his garden.
Are you kidding?
He does not need my help.
This... this is
secretly selfish.
It's the best excuse
to procrastinate.
(60's music playing)
He loves the classics.
Usually not pointed away
from him, outside a window.
(both laughing)
Ooh, you know, this could be
a good, unique date idea?
We still have time.
There's a lot of potential
and metaphors, like,
"repotting one's self,"
or, "finding new love--"
Nah, let's... let's just
save this one for ourselves.
I have a confession to make.
I read your book.
No.
(laughing nervously)
- That thing?
- It's really good!
It's more
than really good, Liam.
No, it's amazing.
It's like your dad,
and your mom, and this garden.
What I'm trying to say
is you're a brilliant novelist
and I don't know why
you try and hide it.
Because it was
a complete failure.
On what terms?
It took me five years
to write that book,
and it amounted to nothing.
You know,
all those years lost.
You really think that?
I disagree.
I think that
in the grand scheme of things,
it brought you to where
you were supposed to be.
Even if it's with me, here,
writing articles
about speed dating.
Speaking of "no time lost."
Maybe there's something
in your theory
that can be applied
to your Tom-related situation.
Like what?
Keep trying?
No.
When I asked you
why you wanted Tom back,
you said that "all that time
couldn't have been for nothing."
But what if those years brought
you to where you need to be?
Even if you
don't end up with Tom.
I think it's a mistake,
going back to him.
He broke up with you.
He didn't say why.
You... you deserve better.
I should go.
I'll e-mail Ronda
the 15 Unique Date Ideas
tonight.
Um, we should give
the speed dating article
another s*ab.
I think you should take
a cr*ck at it on your own.
What?
Aren't you worried that
I'm gonna, you know, go rogue?
Mess things up?
Send the whole Love and Romance
section up in flames?
A little.
(laughing)
But now I've seen
what you can do.
Thanks for inviting me.
Thanks for everything.
Good luck with
your coffee tomorrow.
(phone ringing and buzzing)
(sighing)
(phone chiming)
- Hi.
- Hey.
- Sorry I'm late.
- No, no, it's okay.
It's, uh, just so unlike you.
Just shakin' things up!
You know?
Uh, and work's
just been really crazy.
Yeah?
Isn't it Marisa
and Frank's anniversary party
this weekend, too?
Yeah, that's right.
You remembered.
Of course.
They meant a lot to me.
They, uh...
They mean a lot to me.
Carina,
I wanna be there this weekend.
Oh!
As a friend of the family?
I'm sure we'll make some room.
No, not just
as a friend of the family.
I think I made a mistake.
When I saw you the other day,
it was just like...
Something jogged in my memory.
We've been through
so much together.
I mean, we have history.
We've made plans together.
We're gonna grow old together.
What do you say?
(sighing)
I don't know, Tom.
I'm, uh...
This has been a really
confusing time, you know?
And, I...
You should come this weekend
as a friend of the family.
I think that would be nice.
Um, I just need time to think.
Of course.
Yeah, yeah,
I know you're methodical, so...
Think it through.
Good plan.
Carina, just wanted to say
great job on that
15 Dates article.
It had pop,
just the right amount of humor,
a lot of heart.
Thank you.
I'm happy with it too!
Also, Liam's piece he submitted
early this morning
is exactly
what the site needs.
Just, oh, remarkable!
Wow!
He sent it in already?
- That was fast.
- Great delegating.
- Hey!
- Hey.
How was coffee?
It was all right.
Tom wanna get back together?
He does.
Congratulations.
Well done.
I guess you'll want
your plus one back for Saturday.
No, I'd really like
for you to go.
I'm don't really feel
like being a third wheel.
It's not like that.
I don't even know
what's going on.
Ronda:
Meeting's starting everyone!
Oh, Ronda was over the moon
about our 15 Dates article,
- and our--
- Actually, I wanted to talk
to you about that.
Before we go in,
um, if we could just--
Love and Romance?
Let's get going.
- To be continued?
- Yeah, okay, yeah.
All right then, and now
for something new and exciting
in Love and Romance,
Liam has just sent in
his first solo article.
It's not ready
for publication quite yet,
but close, "10 Reasons You
Should Not Go Back to Him."
This is exactly
the kind of male point of view
that's gonna add
a new dynamic to our website.
Kimberly: Is it a listicle?
No, it's...
it's more of an essay.
It's first person
direct address.
It reads like... like a...
like a letter to a friend.
Actually,
now that I think about it,
this would be
the perfect replacement
for Me and T.
Is this what you had in mind
when you submitted, Liam?
Um...
I hadn't originally thought of
it like that, but, I'm amenable.
Carina, what do you think?
It's great.
Just the perspective we need.
Carina.
"Reasons You Shouldn't
Go Back to Him?"
What are you trying to do?
Get in the last word?
Prove yourself right?
Get in good with Ronda?
What? No!
Look, I think you should
at least read the article
before you get so upset.
I don't need to read it.
I get the gist.
You just made me look clueless
in front of my colleagues,
to my readers--
Nobody knows the "You" is you.
But it is me!
And it won't take much
for them to figure that out.
You pushed me again and again
to dig into my personal life,
and my resistance isn't because
I'm afraid or I'm hiding.
It's because of
who I have to be for my readers
and you're undercutting that!
I honestly didn't think
I was overstepping,
or that you'd be this upset.
Of course you did!
That's why
you went behind my back.
No, wait.
That is not what happened.
Look, I-I-I was working
on the... on the article
for the speed dating
and I got inspired by you
to write this other,
better piece, and so,
I just went with it.
And it felt right,
and I was excited,
so I sent it in.
I'm not trying to put you down
or squelch your voice, Liam.
I just thought
we were on the same team.
I thought so too.
- Carina.
- Not now.
(sighing)
(crickets chirping)
Hm.
Aw, Mamae, you look beautiful.
Amor, have you seen
my reading glasses?
Dad, you can't see the bride
before the ceremony!
Julia: So, catch me up.
Tom's coming to the party,
but things aren't back on?
I don't know.
I'm so confused.
It's like
I finally got what I wanted,
but I forgot that I wanted it.
It's like when you
say a word over and over again
and it just stops making sense.
Well, he hurt you.
It's understandable to be wary.
Yeah, maybe time will tell.
I must admit
I was a little bit curious about
this "work colleague"
that kept coming up.
Who surprised you with
his beautiful writing.
Yeah, I thought that
might be something special,
but, um, it turns out, it's not.
(phone chiming)
I've been hurt before
And it's hard
to scale walls
You can't see
You've been hurt before
You put mountains
between you and me
Um, hey.
What's... what's going on here?
Oh, I'm going back to, uh,
New York, back to HW.
New position opened up,
better than my last one.
Oh.
Um, congratulations.
Thanks.
Um, are you going to be writing
something more substantial
using more of your skills?
(laughing) You overestimate me.
I'm happy going back to
just being "that guy."
It's more money.
You know, more my speed.
It's a no-brainer, really.
I'm... I'm sorry we fought,
or, um,
misunderstood each other.
I'm sorry too. I...
I should've never submitted
the article the way I did.
Thanks.
I can't believe you're leaving.
Um, um...
Um, let's face it.
I was never really a good fit.
I, uh...
I learned a lot from you.
So, thank you.
You're an extraordinary writer.
Ronda: Carina,
will you come into my office?
Sorry, I know this
doesn't bode well
for my collaboration skills.
- Liam leaving?
- Yes.
Well, you're wrong about that.
He wrote a glowing e-mail
where he talked about
how he thought you
were an amazing collaborator.
It almost read like a...
like a letter of recommendation.
Oh.
Well, I called you in here,
because I'd like your help
editing his article.
I've printed it out,
added some of my notes,
but I'd like your input.
"Reasons You Should Not
Go Back to Him."
Um, I will have this
to you by Monday.
It is a shame he's leaving.
I thought you two
had a good dynamic.
Do you mind if I step aside to
work on the speech for a second?
I suppose I can manage.
Good luck.
Hi.
Just put that there.
(sighing)
- Hey.
- Hey.
You're early.
Yeah, I thought I'd come early
to see if you guys
needed help setting up.
That's nice of you.
Wanna sit down?
Yeah, I'd love to.
So...
- So.
- (both laughing)
How's the speech comin'?
- Oh, it's been challenging.
- Yeah?
Yeah, I think I took
for granted how much I knew,
and then, when you left,
it felt so out of the blue,
and it just turned
everything upside down.
I...
I think because
I didn't understand why.
Is this really
the best small talk
leading up
to your parents' vow renewal?
Okay, uh...
Well, I mean, I guess I thought
I felt disconnected from you.
And, I felt like I didn't know
where your column ended
and our relationship began.
But I've processed it,
and, I'm ready to move forward.
I think the distance
you sensed between us was real.
For a long time.
And, instead of
trying to deal with it,
I just clung to the idea of what
I thought it was supposed to be.
And you're right.
I did make us
into one of my columns.
And when you ended things,
I thought you were wrong.
I thought this was
something that could be fixed.
And, of course, it can't.
It's not the kind of thing
that can be fixed.
No.
But, you were the one brave
enough to acknowledge that.
And I had to go
mess everything up
by trying to make
everything right again.
I'm sorry.
I'm sorry too.
Hey, don't worry, Dad,
I'll fly out on long weekends
so I can keep
helping you with all this.
Well, I think you
and I both know
I don't technically
need your help, son.
I just humor you
'cause I like your company.
(chuckling)
And I gotta tell ya.
I don't understand...
I thought you were really
enjoying the SparkLife job.
You know, that 15 Dates article
had so much warmth.
You could tell
the two of you loved writing it.
(chuckling)
Look, I might be going
out on a limb here, son,
but does this sudden departure
have anything to do with Carina?
No, the job is more money
and it's more my speed.
I don't know
what needs explaining.
Yeah, okay, if,
maybe if things were different
with Carina, there would've
been motivation to stay,
but they're not.
And how are they, then?
She's back with Tom,
her former ex,
now current, boyfriend.
She chose him over me.
Did she even know
she had a choice?
Yes, I'm sure she had to.
Even though
you were the one helping her
get this Tom guy back?
You don't think that could be
just a tad confusing?
Son, life's too short
to take the easy road.
Protecting yourself,
saving yourself the trouble
of taking the next big risk?
I watched you do that
with your writing
and now I'm watching you
run away from falling in love.
And I know that
you're better than that.
You do too.
(sighing)
Are you the person I talk to
if I'm having cold feet?
- Hi, Daddy.
- (both laughing)
I think it's about showtime.
What you got there?
I think it's a love letter.
Oh?
That seems apropos.
(laughing)
You ready?
As I'll ever be.
(both laughing)
Welcome, everybody,
as we convene to celebrate
this inspiring couple
I'm lucky enough
to call my mom and dad.
They love each other so much
that they want another chance
to express their vows
and share them with us.
My sister and I didn't get to
witness that the first round.
(all laughing)
The poet,
E. E. Cummings, once wrote,
"Love is the voice
under all silences,
the hope which has
no opposite in fear."
And I think
what he meant by that is...
..that, um...
As some of you may know,
I write for a column about love,
and that, technically,
I have some sort of
extra special knowledge
on the subject.
And, when I was
preparing this speech,
I turned towards
15 different love experts
to try and
say something illuminating.
But today, I think
I'll just sh**t from the hip.
Recently, I've been realizing
that there isn't one right way
to go about love,
that it can't be conquered.
It can't be succeeded at.
It can't be outsmarted.
If you lose it,
it doesn't mean that you failed.
It can be scary.
It can...
..show up
when you least expect it.
It can be challenging, but,
what a relief, right?
That, sometimes,
love knows better than us.
And I have to say,
I have an extra, little edge,
in understanding love,
because I have these two
as an example.
So, let's get started.
Shall we?
(audience cheering
and applauding)
- Hey.
- Hey.
I heard your speech.
- Yeah?
- I have a rebuttal.
Okay.
Regarding this whole premise
of there not being
a right and wrong.
I think there is
a right after all.
And it's that you... you and I
are right for each other,
and we should be together.
I know you're with Tom, but
the elevator pitch version
is that, uh,
I'm in love with you.
And, uh,
in, um, in the spirit
of our mutual endeavors
I made a list of reasons
why we'd be good together.
I wrote it in the car
on the way over,
- so it's a little--
- I'm not with Tom.
- But, I thought--
- I wanna be with you.
Do you wanna see the list?
No, I don't need
to see the list.
I'm sure it's
a very well-written list.
You smile and say
I've waited so long
For this day
This ain't unrequited love
It's just love, baby
To catch us all up,
we're gonna have to say
a temporary goodbye to Carina,
who is going on sabbatical
to write her book.
(happily squealing)
And, in the interim,
Liam will be taking over
Love and Romance,
which I find
delightfully poetic.
What's your book going to be?
Essays.
Less do's and don'ts.
More learning as we go.
Are you ready
for your last assignment?
Yes, a fond, temporary,
farewell to my readers.
Aw!
We'll miss you!
I won't be far.
Carina: So, dear readers,
it turns out I was consumed
by fixing things with T,
and winning him back.
It has been my job to classify
and enumerate
matters of the heart.
I seek concrete answers.
My goal is to give people hope
and let them know
they're not alone
But, at the risk of
demoting myself in your eyes,
I must confess.
Love is mysterious.
It's not something you master.
It's capricious.
It's unpredictable.
No matter how much
you try to encapsulate it.
It's imperfect,
even if you try
your hardest to fix everything
and make it just right.
If you're lucky,
you can find someone who will
be in the moment with you,
tell you the truth.
Someone who will
call it like it is
and love you
for who you are
and can dance.
(bell dinging)
Carina: Love isn't a game
to be won or lost.
The years I spent
with T weren't lost.
They all just helped
to arrive at the place
I was meant to be.
And, that,
I know I'm right about.
It's a good life
And we'll make it last
God knows these nights
go by way too fast
I'm so glad
We fell in love
I think that more people
Should fall in love
You walked into my life
On a Thursday night
And I know
you're not that same guy
But you've aged
like fine wine
You like all
the same movies
That I do
Even though
I talk all the time
You say that you think
It's cute
I don't wanna be friends
I wanna hold your hand
And I think that
we could be great
If we only took that chance
You showed me whiskey,
and patience
And my new favorite band
And I showed you
puzzles and poems
And my own wonderland
And I get lost
in a good book
Or a great song
Or a single look from you
I think we should
kiss right now
'Cause for all we know
The world is ending soon
It's a short life
So let's make it last
God knows these nights
go by way too fast
I think more people
Should fall in love
You're the guy
who consumes all my thoughts
It's infuriating
It's another Thursday night
And I'm finally tired
Of waiting
I lean in for the kiss
And you meet me halfway
You smile and say
I've waited so long
For this day
All these years later
I'm not haunted by maybes
This ain't unrequited love
It's just love
Baby
I think that more people
Should fall in love
(film reel whirring)
10 Truths About Love (2022)
Moderator: Maskath3
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Valentine's Day, Hot, Steamy, Sexy, Romantic Movie Collection.
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