“See, you can’t bus tables in a wheelchair. You’re going to make a mess. So, you’re the war hero, huh? Why? Because you screwed up and got yourself blown up? You’re just leeching off the government’s money. What you are is a disgrace.”

“Is that your daughter? Must be tough having a loser like you for a father.”  “Go, go, go.”  “Could I get you anything, sweetie?”

“Claire.” “Dad, I’m good.” “Okay. All right—I get off at six. What do you say we catch a movie?” “Great—another movie. All we do is sit and watch movies.” “I’m open to suggestions.” “Let’s just go home. I’m sick of going out in public with you. It’s too embarrassing.”

“Oh. Oh dear me. Don’t worry, ma’am—I’ll take care of it. I’m so sorry—my fingers play tricks on me. I’ll run to the kitchen and get a rag. I’ll be right back with a fresh key lime pie and a new coffee.” “Well, thank you.” “Let me run to the kitchen—I’ll be right back.”

“Strawberry milkshake. It’s your favorite.” “Was my favorite—when I was four.” “Look, I know this isn’t exactly how you wanted to spend your Friday, but I was really looking forward to spending time with you.” “Well, I wasn’t. I’m only here because I have to be. So you can go back to work and leave me alone.”

“Do you talk to your mother that way?” “Why would I? Mom didn’t do anything wrong.” “Claire, I know things haven’t been the same since—” “Are you kidding me? Nothing is the same since you came back. My entire life was turned upside down. I guess going halfway across the world to fight for people you don’t even know was more important than being there for your family. And look at you now.” “It was worth it.”

“Don’t forget to wipe the floor—if you can. You missed a spot.”

“I want pie, please.” “Yeah—of course, sweetie. Nice piece of raspberry pie coming right up.”

“Give me your wallets. I don’t want to see it again—pass it around. Wallets in the bag—now. Get on the ground.” “Don’t make me shoot you.” “Don’t shoot—I’m sorry.” “You stay still. My wallet’s in my inside pocket—don’t move.”

“You should be careful with that—you’re going to hurt yourself.” “What’d you say to me?” “Putting your gun in a bag like that—it’s smart, kind of—no fingerprints, no residue. There’s just one little problem.” “Dude, what’s your deal?”

“What is that? Pretty big—Colt .45?” “Yeah—so?” “You fire one shot and that bag’s going to burst into flames.” “Maybe one bullet is all I need to shut you up.”

“Dad, no.” “Claire—stay out of sight.” “Is that your daughter? I’m going to put a bullet in her first.” “Don’t point that gun at my daughter.” “You can’t do anything to stop me, old man.” “Maybe that’s true—but trust me, the only way you’re leaving here is in handcuffs.”

“You know what? Maybe it’s time I shut you up for good.” “Get on the ground—now. Hands where I can see them.” “Okay—okay.” “Weapon secure. Ma’am—call 911.” “We need the police—robbery—135 Green Avenue. Please hurry. Everyone’s safe—but—oh God—just get here.”

“How are you holding up, sweetie?” “I’m still shaking—I can’t seem to stop. How did you do that? You were the only one who wasn’t scared witless.” “Are you kidding? I’ve never been so scared in my life. I was scared of losing you.” “But you could have died.”

“Dad, I’m sorry I’ve been such a jerk. I was so mad at you for getting injured that I didn’t stop to think—I almost lost you. I’m sorry—I should never have done that.” “It’s okay. It’s okay.” “Sorry.” “Sorry.”