She saw through the layers of hurt that Sam was so carefully protecting. He'd wanted to be interviewed. It wasn't until that moment that she realized how much of his identity was wrapped up in his career. It had to be hard, having the glory days that came with being a proficient athlete, to wind up a bartender. It didn't seem to bother him, most of the time. He was one of those people who could make the most of his situation- if he wanted to. Diane knew that he prided himself on being a good bartender, but she knew that there was more to him than just the bar. Just what it was that he was hiding, she wasn't sure, but she wanted to find out.

"Come on, Sam. You did very well."

"Are you kidding me? I made a fool out of myself. That's why that doofus pushed me aside like I was…like I was yesterday's news. Maybe he's right. Maybe I am yesterday's news."

She softened and placed her hand over his. "You're not yesterday's news, Sam. You have a lot going for you. You've led a fulfilling life…"

"I blew it. I blew it all on booze."

She looked surprised. She'd heard stories of his drinking days, but until now she'd thought them exaggerated. "Why do you think you did it?"

"I don't know. I'm an idiot."

"For what it's worth I don't think you're an idiot. Not most of the time, anyways," Diane laughed.

"Come on, you of all people think I'm an idiot. You tell me that all the time!" he protested.

"That's because you act like an idiot most of the time."

He pulled his hand away from her.

"Now, Sam, what's a little humor among friends if it gets lost?"

"I'm glad you think my life is funny. I'm a joke. Everyone knows it."

"I don't think you're a joke."

He looked at her, shocked. "You don't?"

"No. I think it's wonderful what you've done with your life. You hit rock bottom, only to bounce back effortlessly. I take that back. It wasn't effortless for you. It was hard, but you persisted, and now look at you! You're one of the most respected businessmen in Boston! You have loyal friends, regular customers, you're actively dating…"

"You always throw that against me."

"Sam, maybe you are dating for the wrong reasons. But you are out there, living your life, you're not living in the shadow of yesteryear. You're living for the moment, you're taking chances, which is not something I see regularly around this place."

He leaned in to kiss her, but she pulled away. "I can't…"

He got up and started to grab his jacket. "thanks."

"For what? I didn't do anything. I know you're probably mad at me for not kissing you…"

"Forget the kiss. You said some really nice things. It's nice to hear them once in a while."

"You're welcome."

And with that, Sam went back to his business of life.