A Recusant Relationship

Week Two.

The end of your first day not a word was said between you & Cate. As much as she apologised, there was still something in the air that week. Small comments built up, apology after apology came & went but the feelings stayed. A mix of flirtation & hatred was hurled at you, swirling your mind.

"And cut, that's a wrap for today everyone. Thank you"
The director calls

You collect Cates things & head to her trailer, quickly stopping at craft services to grab some food for Cate.

You knock at the trailer door
"It's just me"
You say

"Who is me"
The door opens quickly, her eyes looking red
"You have a name"
She says as she steps aside to let you in

"And I have a voice too"
You let slip out
"I mean I have been working with you for a week I thought you'd know my voice by now"
You say quickly trying to cover your previously abrupt tone

"That you do"
She says, raising her brows in an almost impressed way

"I got you some food, I noticed you hadn't really eaten today"
You say

"Thank you"
She says genuinely, taking the food from you & taking a seat, slowly picking at the food

You stand & snack on some food, hoping it makes her feel more comfortable.

"Now I know tomorrow there is no filming, but do you need assistance with anything at all because I'm happy to help with whatever you may need"
You say

"There is something actually"
She says

"Yeah?"
You answer

"Actually don't worry it will be fine"
She says

"I don't mind really, it's my job"
You say, honestly wanting to help her, as much as she has been somewhat rude, watching her work you still think she is absolutely incredible

"I said it will be fine"
She says, tossing her food to the side & standing up like she's going to walk out

You feel sick & angry all at once
"I'm sorry but what is your problem with me"
You say sternly

She looks at you, eyes piercing, fierce & terrifying
"Excuse me"
She says as she takes a step towards you

Life is made of so many moments that mean nothing. Then one day, a single moment comes along to define every second that comes after. Such moments are tests of courage, of strength

You take a breath
"I said, what is your problem with me?
I've been nothing but nice to you and tried to help you as much as I possibly can but you just seem to absolutely hate me."
You say, you shock yourself

She says nothing, thinking as she stands looking at you, almost like a child who has done the wrong thing & suddenly realises what they've done.

"I was absolutely over the moon when I found out I would be working for you. I look up to you, I adore you, I think you are absolutely incredible and I know this isn't the person I've seen you to be, not at all"
You say, your tone soft, tender almost
"So I'll rephrase what I said. What are your problems?"
You add, looking at her with a kind eye

Her whole stance changes, from a fire to a puddle. Her eyes tear up, she sits back down, slumps.

"I am sorry"
She rubs her forehead before wiping tears
"You're right, this isn't me. I know I've said it so many times this week but I truly am sorry"
She adds

You walk beside her
"May I sit?"
You ask, she nods, you sit, turning your body to her looking at her with her head hung in shame

"I'd like to say sorry, I didn't mean to come off so abrupt and the last thing I wanted was to make you cry"
You say

She looks at you, makeup smudged
"I have a lot going on right now with my home life and I should not be taking it out on anyone especially someone who is helping me"
She says

"Can I help you with anything?"
You ask

"Are you a divorce lawyer?"
She asks with a sad chuckle

"Unfortunately no"
You say, giving her arm a rub without even thinking, her hand raises to yours, you're not sure if she's going to move it away.
She gives it a thankful squeeze

"Thank you"
She says
"And thank you for saying all of those nice things about me. I'm sorry I wasn't what you thought I was"
She adds

"Oh but you are. I seen the real you shinning through while you work. Not the sun not the rain, not the even the brightest star in the sky could compare to you"
You say

She looks into your eyes, you know this look is a thank you without words.
A single tear rolls down her cheek, she goes to wipe it but you beat her to it.

"I'm here for you, not just for work, as another woman helping a fellow woman, a wonderful woman at that"
You say, she smiles gently

"What made you talk to me like that?"
She asks

"I don't know, must be because you've seemed so approachable, like a bed of nails"
You say with a smirk

She begins to laugh
"I think we're going to really get along"
She says

"Or kill one another"
You say quickly with a laugh

"Well that could be thrilling"
She says smirking

"It could"
You reply
"Now let's get you home"
You add