And even though we’re attempting to ease out the tension and bitterness, we don’t say good night to each other or roll over to face one another. I’ve never felt more alone.

* * *

RYOT

Ryot: For those of you not here, Myla came with me to Napa. We talked last night, and the reason she’s here is that she doesn’t want to leave our marriage feeling resentful.

Banner: I guess that’s smart. I wouldn’t want to do that either after everything you’ve been through.

Nola: Wow, she’s stronger than I was. When Caleb and I broke up, I wished he fell in a well and never resurfaced again.

Penn: Remind me to never cross you.

Banner: She’s cutthroat. Myla, on the other hand, no matter how many times she’s tried to let you go, she’s always come back. I can see why she doesn’t want to feel bitterness toward you.

Ryot: I spent the entire night thinking about what she said. She doesn’t want to resent me. She knows being friends isn’t possible with the feelings we have for each other, but she at least wants to be in a headspace where there isn’t any bitterness or resentment. I don’t want there to be bitterness either, I want to work on this. I want to work on us. So . . . that’s why I’m going to win her back.

Penn: Oh God.

Nola: **winces**

Banner: Dude, is that the best idea?

Ryot: It’s the obvious choice.

Penn: Or are we reading a little desperate?

Nola: I don’t like agreeing with Penn, but you might be in a good spot to end things amicably rather than in a dumpster fire.

Banner: Yeah, after last night, I don’t think trying to win her back is the right choice.

Nola: What happened last night?

Penn: Yeah, clue us in.

Banner: Well, after the kiss that nearly turned me on just watching it . . .

Nola: YOU KISSED?

Banner: I would like to clarify: Myla and Ryot kissed. Proceed.

Penn: I didn’t think you (Banner) and Ryot kissed, although sometimes brotherly love can go a bit far.

Nola: What the hell is wrong with you?

Penn: Can’t say.

Banner: The kiss shook the hotel because he wasn’t expecting it, and then after that, she was all light and breezy and fun. The Myla we all know and love. It was fucking strange. And he was eating it up. I think you’re going to get your hopes up, man. She’s in a different headspace than you, and I don’t want you even more hurt and disappointed.

Nola: He’s right. It’s hard to try to get someone to fall for you when they’re intent on letting you go.

Penn: If I’m looking at this right, I’m going to have to agree with them. It doesn’t seem intelligent.

Ryot: Maybe not, but what did you say, Banner? She always comes back to me? Well, this is one of those instances. I admit that I drove her away, but I know how to fix it. I know how to make this right, and I will regret it for the rest of my life if I don’t at least try.