“Suzy, you really can’t let them do this. It’s embarrassing for you. It’s embarrassing for me.”

She looked at him in this place that was all his. His books. His pictures. His knick knacks and memories from his successful life in film and teaching. She felt small.

Susan remembered being here as a student. She was so excited. She had so many hopes and ambitions. Back then, every corner of his office was a mystery. She wanted to know so much about his stuff, about him. As she had spent more time here, it had become a sort of second home. A place where she could find an excuse to hang out. To be part of the memories and history of this place.

But now, as the afternoon faded and the office grew darker, she felt uneasy. The books were old. The knick knacks were dusty. The small couch in the corner had cracks and tears. She had been so young, and naïve, and just plain stupid. She felt angry and hurt and ashamed.

She glared him down. “Steven, you’re an asshole. You were as asshole then. You’re a bigger asshole now. These kids, my kids, have more talent and passion than you and yours could ever have. They are going to win this stupid festival of yours.”

“Suzy, don’t be a bitch,” he said. “Don’t let your pride degrade you. Don’t let it screw you again.”

“Steven, Stevie, you degraded me. You screwed me. But it stops right here and now.”

With that, Susan Lilly turned and stormed out of his office, slamming the door. Somewhere back inside, she heard one of his knick knack fall off one of his shelves and clatter to the floor.