Gary was twirling his glass of vodka. Slippery slope, Preston. You have been in this state before, which resulted in you sleeping with a girl you ended up marrying for a green card, hence ruining all chance with the girl you have loved for the past 15 years. It has been a week since he and Miranda last talked, as she stopped coming to the restaurant and he didn't dare to come by the shop. He spent all the late nights alone in his flat, drinking.

He got a text from Stevie the next morning, saying that Miranda was at a therapist today so he could come over and talk. His guilt intensified, thinking she was shaken up so badly she had to go for a therapy. This path of self destruction could not go on forever, he decided, so he had to talk to Stevie. He came over to the shop.

- Hi Stevie. I made some muffins.

- Thanks, but I'm still mad at you.

- Yes, I know I messed up big time.

- I'm not bothered about the green card thing. But a fling with Tamara? Why did you do that? I thought you cared about Miranda already before you left for Hong Kong? - Gary told Stevie the whole story, and as she listened she nodded sympathetically.

- I understand, but I don't think Miranda can. You know what she's like.

- I know, I really don't know what to do. Please believe me, I really didn't mean to hurt her feelings. That's the last thing I want. And now she has to see a therapist because of me...

- I'm not sure if that's the reason, she just texted me saying she's there with her mum. She didn't tell me why. Look, Gary, it's best if you give her some time.

- It's not like I have any other choice is it? She said she wanted to move on from me.

- True, but remember, you are not only her date but also her friend. You have disappointed her as both.

- I know, I know - burying his face in his hands, he was trying to think of a solution.

- I think you need to break down the situation. Try being a good friend to her first, that's easier for you. Then, when the situation improved, you can bring up the dating again.

- I don't think she want to date me anymore Stevie.

- Maybe, but try anyway. I know she likes you a lot. She always has for all these years. And if I'm not mistaken, you have been feeling the same.

- Definitely.

- Then... we should leave it. Only time can tell. I will help you out, I will speak to her. In the meantime, you know how to get her friendship back...

- Muffins! - Gary smiled. Back to friends. But better than nothing. I want to be around her, even just as friends. Perhaps that would be enough.