Summary: Being a singer is one thing, having friends is another.

Work Text:

(The scene opens to a cabaret. Arnold and his parents watch Dino Spumoni singing a song. After he finishes, some people including the trio, applause.)

DINO

— And i wanted to thank you personnally. Now, here is a pause.

(Some people stand up, Arnold and his parents stay at their table).

MILES

— So, Arnold, is this man the Dino Spumoni you used to talk about ?

ARNOLD

— Yep. He was a good singer. I helped him a few times, (mention to episode Partners and Dino Checks Out).

STELLA

— I share your opinion. However, he seems to be sad. (Dino is actually very sad, indeed, and Arnold goes to see him).

ARNOLD

— Nice songs, Dino.

DINO

— Ah, i wish kid, i wish.

ARNOLD

— Is there somethign wrong ?

DINO

— Well, to be honest, my career is great but ive got a few friends, there were just colleagues.

ARNOLD

— You have Don Reynolds.

DINO

— Yeah, i have him, but he is more a musical complement. He is more a guy whom with i like to work, not a real friend.

ARNOLD

— And, so, why don't you make any friends ?

DINO

— Well, to be honest (his voice lows) : i don't know how to make. I mean, i know how to talk to people, but the rest... The rest is very complicated.

ARNOLD

— For once, i think my parents could be great adviser. (Dino Smiles. The scene shifts into the lodge, where Miles and Stella discuss with Dino).

MILES

— So, Dino, you have trouble to make friends right ?

DINO (sadly)

— Yes.

STELLA

— Ah, don't be ashamed, it's not a bad thing, we can help you. We organize tonight an evening with a lot of friends, you could join us !

DINO

— It would be with a great pleasure.

(The scene shifts to the lodge, at night. Miles and Stella are organizing their fiesta, and there is some people we do not know. Dino arrives with some gifts, but he is also very uncomfortable.)

MILES

— Don't worry, Dino, all will be Ok.

(However, Dino although he has a goodwill, realizes it's not easy. He notices some people who are talking and tries a friendly approach but they just want autographs from him. Dino feels discouraged.)

(Then, he finds an other group and tries genuinely to make conversation with them, but the group either want selfie or just interest in conversation's speeches he does not handle. He finally leaves, and sits on the upstairs. Arnold finds him.)

ARNOLD

— Hey Dino, how are the things ?

DINO

— Ah, it's very sad. You see, i don't blame your parents but it seems that nobody actually regards me as a true person. I sometimes have the impression i'm the just celebrity thing.

ARNOLD

— Yes, it s been hard because they only know you as a singer, they actually don't know you as a non-singer.

DINO

— Yes, it's very awkward to tell this, but it's right.

(Arnold thinks about something, then gets an idea).

(The scene shifts into the lodge, Arnold encourages Dino to make what he tought earlier.)

DINO

— Hey, people !

MAN

— Look, this is Dino Spumoni.

DINO

— Ah, please, you can call me Dino, you know, i also am a regular guy, just like you !

MAN

— That's right. We have to apologize, in fact, we are not used to meet some artistic man.

DINO

— Actually, it's not your fault, no worries. I realize i was so busy with my career i neglect to make friends. That's when Arnold Shortman and his parents helped me. Those are the ones i need to thank (he gives them a genuine wink, then pursues). Arnold helped me to realize that i should maybe use a simple speech in order to talk with you, not putting my needs first. And , his parents took the time to invite me to this lodge. Now, if you want, i would like to discuss with you.

(The others agree, and we see Dino, sit at a round table, playing cards and having a great time. A light sound jazz music can be heard, as Dino enjoys his new friends. The scene shifts to the fest's end. The last guests have left, and Dino prepares to do the same things.)

DINO

(Shaking all Miles, Stella and Arnold's hand, very enthusiastically).

— Thanks a lot for all your good advice and the very unforgettable evening. Thanks to you, i managed to find some new friends.

MILES

— It was a pleasure, Dino. Now, what do you think you will make in the future ?

DINO

— Well, maybe i could invite you for one night, like this. It's my way to pay back my debt, as i owe you one (he takes his jacket and leaves, and as he returns, waves at them with a friendly sincere smile . They return the salute as he finally takes his way home.)

The Screen turns black.

The End.