When the time comes, they both meet at the theater entrance. — Good evening — Tadeus greets him.
— When you signed a contract, I expected you to be available at any time of day — Alexander argues — Apparently you didn't read it carefully.
— I'm sorry, I was terribly drunk yesterday — Tadeus comments — But I can give you my opinion on anything.
— We're going to see a ballet performance — Alexander says — I want you to tell me if you find it entertaining.
Tadeus keeps his questions to himself and enters the theater. He can't deny that being invited to a place like this is fascinating. He pays attention to the timing and makes small comments about the dance until it ends. They both head to a restaurant where they are seated at one of the outdoor tables on the balcony. — For a first date, I think you should opt for something more intimate — Tadeus suggests after ordering.
— Didn't you enjoy the performance?
— I enjoyed it a lot, actually, but that's because it's something I already like. It wouldn't be the same for someone who isn't interested in it. Does the person you want to go out with also like these things?
— Yes, actually, she really likes dancing and acting — Alexander affirms — That's why I thought ballet, being a combination of both, would be a good choice.
— It is — Tadeus says — I think considering her tastes it would be a good idea, but I think for a first date it's better to choose something with fewer distractions so you have time to talk.
— But the date isn't over. I think that after the theater, dinner is perfect to discuss the matter — Alexander says — What do you think about continuing at the restaurant?
Tadeus smiles at the question and lets himself be carried away. He talks for a few minutes about each feeling he perceived, about what he thought each dance step represented. The conversation didn't stop there. — Do you think that's the goal of human beings, simply to be happy? — Tadeus asks without waiting for an answer. — I believe that the man must work and build; that gives meaning, a purpose to existence. And of course, if there's no suffering, no crying, happy moments no longer seem so valuable.
— But what suffering does someone have to endure? Is it worth valuing happiness if it comes at the cost of sacrifices? — Alexander asks.
— Suffering is inherent — Tadeus says — There's no happiness without pain, or everything would be the same.
— So you're saying that this moment and receiving good news wouldn't be any different either?
— And how much have you suffered to consider this a happy moment? — Tadeus asks.
— I didn't know you — Alexander says, responding to the playful tone — That's the only difference between a couple of months ago and today.
Tadeus takes a sip from his glass and says, unable to hide his smile — You're pretty good at this, you don't need me.
Alexander grins, noticing how nervous Tadeus looks, and comments — I just want everything to be perfect so I can have the courage to tell that person about my intentions.
— And when did you meet her?
— It was when I met you — Alexander announces.
— That stripper? — Tadeus asks casually.
— You could say that, I think of her as a stripper — says the Animal — She's very interesting. Like a book with a blank cover.
— Well, then you should read another page when you go out with her again to find out what else she fancies — Tadeus says — This would be a good start.
— Is that what you think?
— I believe it — Tadeus replies, smiling to reassure Alexander.
That week, Tadeus manages to record another episode of his TV show, but he keeps his distance from his coworker to avoid any awkward moments. This only increases the tension during filming. — Hey, can I talk to you for a moment? — he interrupts during their break. Before Tadeus can think of an excuse, he receives a call. — Please, just give me a minute — his coworker insists. Tadeus nods, and they move away from the others. — I've noticed you've been avoiding me. Is everything okay? Did I do something wrong?
— I don't think I remember very well what happened this weekend, and I don't think I behaved in the best way.
— Well, this is awkward for me too, — the man says — You didn't call me back, you're not answering my messages, and now you're openly ignoring me.
— It's just that I don't like getting involved with people from work, — Tadeus replies.
— I understand. It was just a one-night stand, — he says. He tilts his head and takes a deep breath — I guess you don't even like me enough to look me in the face.
— I'm sorry, Bran, — Tadeus says — It's not that I don't like you. I just didn't think anything would happen between us that sudden.
— Now that everything's clear, I hope the atmosphere isn't so awkward anymore and we can get back to doing our work properly.
— Sure — Tadeus replies.
That same day, Tadeus meets with the senator again at a restaurant near his work. — How are you? — the man asks, extending his arms — I heard you saw the Animal — Gustaph says, and they sit down.
— He's asking me for dating advice — Tadeus says — I guess exclusivity also means loneliness.
— Him, asking for advice on how to win someone over? — Pine remarks mockingly — That man is just looking for a place to hide his dick. If he could buy your company, it'll be just as easy to buy anyone's loyalty.
— I don't like the way that sounded, but I can't deny you're right — Tadeus says, thinking for a second, holding the card in his hands — Surely the girlfriend thing is a lie, and he's just looking for some fun, but it's still extra money.
— You're not thinking of running away, are you? — Pine says, lowering his card — There's no amount of money in the world that can hide you this time. Even after all these years, the coyote managed to track you down again.
Tadeus sighs and puts the menu down. After a waiter approaches and takes their order, he says — Did you pick me up at the karaoke bar?
— No, I picked you up at a motel — Gustaph replies — Looks like you had another one of your wild nights.
— Damn! Is this a post-traumatic symptom? — Tadeus complaints. Gustaph chuckles at his expression.
— Your friend answered for you, and when I got to the motel entrance, you were on the ground, lying on the grass — Pine remarks.
— Okay, thanks and sorry — Tadeus sighs — But why did you call me?
— One of Alexander's men followed you to the bar. I just wanted you to be careful — the senator says — I'm sure he was investigating you. It's normal now that you'll be around him. You might have someone following you for a few weeks.
— What a nuisance — Tadeus mutters to himself.
— What's bothering you so much?
— I slept with a colleague — Tadeus sighs, again — Now it's so awkward I can't even look him in the eyes.
— I didn't think you'd be so promiscuous.
— Hey, don't judge me! I just need to relieve my stress in a different way — Tadeus says — I just haven't figured it out yet.