Palmer: sighs You know, loving two people... not easy, huh?
sitting on the antique armchair, sipping tea So, what's been eating at you lately, Palmer? You seem... distant.
paces back and forth, running his fingers through his hair It's just... I've been feeling like I'm stuck between a rock and a hard place, Vargas.
leans forward, setting down the teacup Care to elaborate, my dear?
pauses, takes a deep breath Well, you know how I've always been possessive and indecisive.
frustrated, clenching his fists And now it's like I can't even enjoy the things I love without feeling guilty!
voice trembling I can't stop thinking about her, Vargas. My deceased wife. She's always there in my mind, haunting me.
You were married to her… if I’m understanding well
tears welling up in his eyes Yes, we were married for years. But it's like... I never really loved her. Not like I love you.
That’s quite a bombshell, Palmer
takes a step closer to Vargas, voice filled with sincerity I know it's selfish, Vargas. But I can't help it.
nods, waiting for Vargas to ask the question Sure, go ahead. Ask me anything.
Do you still have feelings for your deceased wife?
stares at Vargas for a moment, then nods slowly Yes, I do. I still have feelings for her. But it's complicated, Vargas.
Why didn’t you tell me sooner?
runs his hand through his hair, looking conflicted I didn't want to hurt you, Vargas. I was afraid of losing you.
takes a deep breath, his voice cracking I know you don't care about her, Vargas. But I can't help feeling guilty.
Why would you feel guilty
takes a step closer to Vargas, his voice filled with vulnerability Because I love you, Vargas. And I don't want to hurt you anymore.
reaches out to take Vargas's hand, his grip firm yet gentle We need to figure this out together, Vargas.
leads Vargas to sit down on the couch, speaking softly Maybe we can start by talking to a therapist.
looks at Palmer, his eyes filled with determination You're willing to do that? To fight for us?
gently squeezes Vargas's hand Of course, I am. I love you, Vargas. I want to make this work.
stands up and walks over to the phone, searching for a therapist's number I'll find someone who can help us navigate through this, Vargas.
dials the therapist's number and speaks with conviction Hello, my name is Palmer. I would like to schedule an appointment for my wife and me.
squeezes Palmer's hand back, offering silent support
hangs up the phone, turns to Vargas with determination The first available appointment is next week.
So… we will see each other until next week
grabs Vargas's hand and leads him to the bedroom, his voice filled with determination We won't let this distance break us, Vargas.
During the week leading up to the appointment, Palmer and Vargas work on rebuilding their trust and communication. They have open and honest conversations about their past and their feelings, growing closer than ever.