Chapter Text
[The shot opens on the interior of a diner. Rosemary Shanahan is struggling to get up from a broken booth chair, while Hal Larson helps her up]
ROSEMARY: I’m so embarrassed.
HAL: Don’t be! It’s this flimsy-ass four-star restaurant. Just sit right here. I’m gonna talk to the manager, OK?
[The shot follows Hal as he walks into the foyer, where Melanie Wilkes, wearing her era clothing, looks confused. Hal nods to her and walks up to the hostess]
HAL: I'm not blaming you, but l need a chair. My girlfriend's jinxed when it comes to furniture.
[The hostess nods and hurries away. The phone on the hostess’ desk rings, and Hal picks it up]
MAURICIO: Shallow Hal wants a gal.
HAL: What?
MAURICIO: I just saved your life, baby.
[Hal frowns and hangs up the phone. He turns around, and Melanie looks exactly the same as before]
HAL: Are you from some sort of convention?
[Melanie, quivering, glances away. The shot stays in the foyer as Hal sighs and walks into the dining room.]
[Melanie pulls her shawl around her shoulders]
MELANIE: Oh, Ashley, where are you…