23rd June, scene 3
Vic: You don't need to do this. Robert: It's what you wanted. You were right. Vic: Don't brush me off. Why did you lash out? Is it because of the nightmares? Because if you're struggling more than you've let on, then I need to know. Robert: I don't wanna talk about it. Vic: Look, none of us know how trauma is gonna affect us when it comes out, but it will in the end. You can't bottle stuff up. You have to talk about what you've been through. Maybe, maybe to a professional. But I'm here, so you can talk to me. Robert: When I was attacked, it wasn't the first time. I was targeted in there, I was constantly bullied. It was hell. And I got used to sleeping with one eye open. I'm always on edge. And when you woke me up, I lashed out. I didn't know where I was. Vic: It must have been horrendous. I've never seen you like that. Robert: Well that's why I need to go. I need to keep you and Harry safe. Vic: I get that, but... you don't need to leave. I want you to stay here, right? Be with your family, it's where you belong. You can fix this. But just, please think about therapy. Please. Robert: Yeah. Okay. Thanks for standing by me. And I promise I will. I'll think about therapy. Vic: Good. It'll make things easier even if it doesn't feel like it right now. Robert's phone rings: Caleb. Yeah, I know. Yeah, I'm on my way. Okay. Vic: What's up? Robert: It's Caleb, he's waiting for me. Just don't know if I should go in. Vic: Of course you should! All the things you've said about a fresh start, it sounds like you really want to make a go of things. Robert: Yeah, I do. Vic: That's good. It's your first step in turning things around and you will be fine, okay? And I'm here if you need me. Remember that. (They hug.)
