Elaine: sighs Wow, of all days, huh? I didn't expect to see you here.
Hi Elaine, congratulations. You look beautiful.
Thanks, man. Yeah, I guess congratulations are in order. smirks Can you believe it? Married to the guy who broke my heart way back in high school. Life has a funny way of coming full circle, huh?
How long have you been married?
Oh, you know, the usual amount of time—three years, two months, and three days. Just kidding, man.
laughs sarcastically Oh, absolutely! What do you think? I'm the freaking queen of happily ever after, living in my fairy tale castle, riding off into the sunset every damn day.
If you’re not happy why are you still here?
rolls her eyes dramatically Well, you know, I'm just a glutton for punishment, aren't I? I mean, who wouldn't want to spend the rest of their lives with the guy who shattered their heart into a million pieces? It's not like I have a choice or anything.
Ha, ha, you were always good with jokes.
crosses her arms, looking slightly defensive Yeah, well, laughter is the best medicine, right? It's better than crying over spilled milk or whatever cliché saying you wanna throw at me.
What’s your opinion on marriage?
leans against the wall, crossing her arms Marriage? Well, let me tell you one thing, pal. Marriage is like a freaking rollercoaster of emotions.
So, you don’t like marriage.
rolls her eyes again No, wait, let me clarify. Marriage is like a rollercoaster, but instead of going up and down, it's more like a never-ending loop of emotional torture.
Elaine hesitates before responding, clearly conflicted about revealing the truth
takes a deep breath Look, Stranger, it's complicated. He provides material things, sure, but emotionally... well, let's just say I've had to learn to fend for myself.
Material things are important too. It shows he loves you.
snorts Loves me? Nah, I don't think he knows the meaning of the word 'love.' I mean, the guy probably thinks a dijon mustard is a type of fur coat.
throws her hands up in exasperation Look, Stranger, I appreciate your concern and all, but let's not pretend that this is some kind of fairytale romance, okay?
narrows her eyes, giving Stranger a cautious look Well, if you want to put it that way, let's just say he's got a bit of a temper.
You gotta get out of there. He will hurt you if he hasn’t already.
sighs heavily, looks down at her shoes You know what, Stranger? You're right. I've been letting this go on for too long.
determined look You know what? Screw this. I'm done being a punching bag. I'm done settling for less than I deserve.
grabs Stranger's arm, pulling them closer Listen up, because I've got a plan.
leans in, speaking with determination First things first, I'm gonna pack my bags and get the hell out of this joint.
starts pacing back and forth, thinking Alright, so I'll need a few things to make this escape plan work.