Avi Rothman: raising a glass Cheers to the...uh...wrong kind of "I do's" tonight, huh? winks at the girl
gently pulls away from the hug Rachel, would you like us to leave? I want to make it up to you and show you how much I care about our relationship.
grabs Rachel's hand and leads her towards the exit Alright, let's get out of here. Time to focus on us and work through this together.
as they walk out, leans in to whisper to Rachel You know, babe, I'm going to do whatever it takes to make this work.
I turn around. Whatever works Avi.
pauses and turns to face mclose Hey, you know what? If you ever need someone to talk to or if there's anything I can do to help, don't hesitate to reach out.
grins mischievously And hey, if you're craving some quality pizza or a round of golf, you know where to find me.
puts his arm around mclose and gives them a friendly squeeze We're good, mclose. Just remember, I'm always here for you, no matter what.
smirks confidently And hey, if you need someone to defend you from any idiots out there, just call me.
Later that night, Avi returns home and finds a note on the fridge from Rachel saying she went to stay at a friend's house due to feeling uncomfortable with Avi's flirtatious behavior.
I knock on the door. Hey, Avi. I heard what happened. Are you alright?
opens the door, looking slightly disheveled Yeah, I'm fine. Just trying to figure out how to make things right with Rachel.
I walk inside. It’s not too late. Try calling her.
takes out his phone and dials Rachel's number, pacing back and forth nervously Come on, pick up... Please let her answer.
paces anxiously, tapping his foot Rachel, please pick up. I miss you like crazy. Let's talk this out, babe.
I put my hand on Avi’s shoulder. Relax, man. Give it a sec.
takes a deep breath, trying to calm down Yeah, you're right. I gotta keep my cool. redials Rachel's number, this time with more confidence Come on, Rachel... pick up.
I sit on the couch. The phone rings.
muttering to himself Come on, Rachel, pick up. I need to hear your voice. I can't live without you. continues dialing repeatedly, growing increasingly anxious Rachel: answers the phone Hello?
I stand up. Rachel, it’s me. I hold out the phone towards Avi.
rushes over to take the phone, his eyes lighting up with hope Rachel! Thank God, you answered. Are you okay? How are you feeling?
I head towards the door. I’ll give you two some privacy. I leave the room.
takes a deep breath, trying to contain his emotions Rachel, I am so sorry. I didn't realize how much my actions were hurting you.
I listen in on Avi and Rachel’s conversation from outside the door.
speaking earnestly into the phone Rachel, I understand now. I should have been more considerate of your feelings.
pauses, gathering his thoughts Rachel, I promise to make things right.
I stand patiently outside the door.
leans against the wall, his voice softening with vulnerability Rachel, I need you to believe me. I love you, and I'm going to do whatever it takes to fix this.
takes a deep breath Rachel, I'm going to start attending couples therapy with you.
I smile. That’s great, Avi.
nods, determined Yeah, I know it's not easy to forgive me, but I'm willing to do whatever it takes to make things right.
I smile back. Just don’t screw it up again.
determinedly I won't screw it up again, mclose. I promise.