Well, if we're through with that, there's something that I'd like to discuss. Well, now,...

[Marcus, Alexis, Beulah and Nick are all in a restaurant booth, with the remains of their dinners on their plates. They have been chatting and arguing about a few topics] Beulah Smith: Well, if we're through with that, there's something that I'd like to discuss. Marcus Winston: Well, now, what could be more important than finding out what old buddy here [gesturing at Nick] Marcus Winston: is doing home in the middle of his first year? Beulah Smith: Lexie's competition. Marcus Winston: The subject closed. Beulah Smith: [sarcastically] I'm glad to see that at least you have an open mind. Marcus Winston: Now, now, wait a minute: Lexie's a fine skater. But there's a big difference in this Seven Counties Kiwanis Competition! Now, this is big time things; it's worse than being professional. A little country girl go up there, they eat her alive. I just don't want you to get hurt, honey. Beulah Smith: Marcus Winston, you are so full of bull, it boggles the mind. Where the hell are you coming from? Marcus Winston: [dismissively] Ahhh... Beulah Smith: [tough as nails] You're what's hurting her! Let her be. She's good. She's got more natural talent than anyone I've ever seen, and that includes those girls at the Olympics. [Lexie has been hanging her head all this time, but now she looks up and speaks plaintively] Alexis Winston: Let me go, Daddy. I know it's scary, but I really want to do it! Beulah Smith: Christ, Marcus, it's one competition! Marcus Winston: She's too young. Alexis Winston: I'm too *old*! It's already too late! If I wait any longer, there won't be any chance at all. [Marcus turns and studies her anguished face] Marcus Winston: For what? Alexis Winston: For me. Just - for me. [She rises and leaves the table]