Challenge #5 - Hands
I thought of “Both Hands” by Ani DiFranco and this came from that
VAL and DAWN are in their studio apartment. It is a space too small for both their large personalities. VAL has come in from the rain. The room is tense.
VAL
I’m sorry.
DAWN
No, I’m sorry.
VAL
I just don’t understand how we keep ending up here. It’s like a freaking labyrinth, we keep circling each other to end up in the same place.
DAWN
And then you storm out to end the conversation.
VAL
I know. I said I’m sorry.
DAWN
I know, I’m sorry. I’m sorry. I just. It’s very frustrating for me that it’s always the same and you apologize and I can’t express how I’m feeling and we are happy until we’re not and then we fight and you run and come back and say sorry and it’s over and over and over and… this isn’t working.
VAL
I know, I know, I need to work on not running and facing you when we are in conflict and —
DAWN
No, Val. Look at me. THIS isn’t working. WE aren’t working. Not anymore.
VAL
Every couple goes through growing pains. We both have a lot going on at work, we’re not working smoothly right now, but we’ll get back there. It’lil just take time.
DAWN
We’ve taken a lot of time already. We’ve moved in together, you’ve cut back on your class schedule, I don’t get to gym at all anymore. We’re in individual therapy and couples therapy and the only time we aren’t fighting or make up is when we’re in bed. And that’s not what I want.
VAL
So that’s it? You want to break up?
DAWN
I want us both to be happy and I don’t think we make each other happy anymore.
VAL
You make me happy.
DAWN
Before you leave? Once you’re soaking wet from the rain?
VAL
When we’re here. When you’re here. Beside me.
DAWN
This isn’t sustainable.
VAL
Maybe not, but can you say you’re really done trying?
DAWN
Turn those bedroom eyes away from me, we’re having a serious conversation.
VAL
But I’m so cold and wet and I just want to get wrapped up in bed… with you. Can we talk in the morning?
DAWN
You do look cold.
VAL
Come warm me up baby.
DAWN
We are going to talk in the morning.
VAL
Of course
DAWN
But… it can wait until tomorrow.