[Regifortis]

Steve felt goosebumps at the prospect of discussing what happened. He could easily just stick in a movie and call it done. He wouldn't have to think about anything. But all the same...there were some things he wanted to say, and certainly one or two things he wanted to know. It would be a waste to pass up this opportunity. He sat down on the couch.

"I don't want to talk, but I kinda need to. I hope you don't mind." Steve took a deep breath. "I'm guessing you didn't tell anybody about what I told you. But if you did, then I guess I can't blame you. So I guess I'll make myself plain.

"I admit I went about the whole 'test week' thing all wrong. I was in a really shitty time in my life - still am, really - but I think I could have just left all that at the door. I'm not sure how I could have done that, but it didn't occur to me to try. It did make me nervous when you started nosing into my business, to be fair. About those boxes you saw in the trash bag. I did say my secrets were none of your business, so I did make myself clear. And the same goes for any secrets of yours: I won't pry. I think that set me off, made me a little too desperate to keep my cover. So I didn't...I didn't let up and try to see things your way, I guess you could say. I was too wound up."

Steve palmed his empty belly. "So, uh...I think that just leaves a question I have for you. Do you believe what I told you? That one big thing I said, do you believe me about it?"