Dawson's Creek (1998–2003): Season 4, Episode 11 - The Tao of Dawson - full transcript
Pacey learns that Dawson and Gretchen are dating which doesn't suit him at all. So, Pacey tries to get Gretchen and her ex-boyfriend, Nick Taylor, back together when they go on a road trip to pick up her car at her college in Providence. Back in Capeside, Joey has her fair share of problems when she gets locked in a storage closet at the Yacht Club with none other than the loathsome sociopath Drue Valentine, whom has set up the whole thing to avoid visiting his estranged father in New York. Meanwhile, Dawson observes the feelings growing between Mr. Brooks and Grams and fears that Grams will get hurt when she finds out that Brooks, like her last husband, is terminally ill with cancer.
Maybe we're too early.
Or maybe the fish are still asleep.
Fish don't sleep, Pacey.
Yeah, l'm really glad
we're hanging out...
...but did our first jaunt together
in months really have to be at sunrise?
l've got something to tell you that
l have a feeling will keep you awake.
l like your sister, Pacey.
You like her,
or you '' like her'' like her?
l'm talking about Gretchen Witter,
not Winnie Cooper.
Are we talking about the feelings
of fondness and fellowship...
...that naturally follow
from an obligatory mistletoe kiss...
...or will l find you outside my house
holding a boom box over your head?
l'm crazy about her.
Well, you've had a crush on her
for years. That's all this is, right?
No, this is more
than a grade-school crush.
Even though she won't
acknowledge it...
...l think on some level she feels
the same way about me.
lt's a hell of a lot to digest
before breakfast, Dawson.
Last spring, if you'd told
me how you felt about Joey...
...it would have made things a lot
easier. That's all l'm trying to do.
Dawson, you and l are friends.
Friends. But sisters-- Sisters are....
-Off-limits?
-Yes, sisters are off-limits.
They're like mothers, only pretty.
l'm not asking for your permission,
Pace. l'm just letting you know.
So, what are your plans?
My plans?
Yeah, to pursue my sister.
-What are you gonna do?
-Nothing.
Nothing?
Well, what kind of plan
is '' nothing''?
Well, l've just decided
to let things play out.
One thing l learned after last spring
is that some things can't be forced.
So then your plan would be
to not have a plan.
Exactly.
The Tao of Dawson
is to do nothing.
Done nothing so far,
and we've already kissed.
l figure the best thing l can do
is just keep on doing nothing.
What's with the rush?
At this speed, l can get to school,
grab my car and get out before dark.
Your car's been at school for months,
now your friends borrowed it too long?
Friend.
Well, actually, ex-boyfriend.
Nick has had your car
this whole time?
-l always liked that guy.
-You don't know him.
Nick and me? Dos amigos.
You sat with him two hours
when l brought him for Christmas.
So l know he likes the Patriots,
pretzels and a good party.
He'd rather sleep and sail than study,
plus the man has great taste in music.
His favourite song is '' Freebird.''
-You just described yourself.
-Well, great men think alike.
l think it's wonderful the two of you will
be able to spend quality time together.
Does your sudden proclivity for my
ex-boyfriend have anything to do...
-...with a fair-haired pal of yours?
-Who, Dawson?
Why should l care? You assured me
that kiss meant nothing.
You know, even though,
it didn't really look like nothing...
...because it went on
a little bit long to be nothing.
l think he doesn't think it's nothing. But
if you said it's nothing, it's nothing.
Dawson and l are just friends.
That's it, trust me.
Okay, l guess you've
earned my trust.
This music doesn't
entirely suck.
''Great tunes for Gretchen
from Dawson.''
That would be Leery.
So he made you a mix CD?
How sweet.
Did l mention that Nick is not only
smart, but also quite handsome?
l mean, really, he's a good-looking
guy. He works out, doesn't he?
Did you think it was weird
when Andie was dating Pacey?
Not really. Why?
Because Pacey really doesn't
like the idea of Gretchen and me.
Well, sure. l mean, she's his sister,
and you're his close friend.
l didn't know Pacey when he
hooked up with Andie.
But if l had to think
about you and Andie....
Let's not go there.
Dawson may have a sister soon.
Then he'll understand.
Or a brother. l find out in
a couple hours, right?
Well, no. Actually, honey,
we've changed our mind again.
l mean, should we
use technology to cheat...
...what may be
life's last great mystery?
Or is it anticlimactic to wait
until the baby is born?
Whatever you guys decide,
let me know...
...so l know what to do with
the pink and blue paint l have on hold.
-Good point.
-Come on, we'll decide in the car.
Good luck.
Oh, my God.
What's that?
l told you l used to write
Gretchen silly little letters?
-Yeah.
-This is the last one l wrote.
The one l never sent.
Oh, God. This is embarrassing.
l'm all gushing and lovesick.
Maybe you should...
...say some of that to her now.
No. l told her how l feel.
-Not like that, l bet.
-No, l told her like an adult.
Maybe if you acted more like a kid,
you might be with her.
Last time l acted like a kid
l ended up...
...trying to prove something
in a boat race. Remember that?
Oh, yeah.
Not my finest moment.
Besides, she knows how
l feel about her, you know.
lf it's meant to be, it'll be.
lf not, that's the way it goes.
Zen and the art of dating. Congrats,
you've created a new movement.
Yeah.
Closed for renovation.
You know, this free time presents
sort of a steak-or-lobster dilemma.
Now, do l go cheerleader
or drama club chick tonight?
-What do you think?
-Flip a coin.
Heads is bimbo, tails is skank.
Where's the love, huh?
After working with you for the last
six days, l don't know, l guess l lost it.
How do you plan
to observe your Sabbath?
Oh, a relaxing little experience known
as researching my English term paper.
Let me guess: '' How to Keep
a Boyfriend and Your Virginity...
...or: The Many Uses
of the Human Hand.''
Finally a subject
you know all about.
Very good, Joey. That's what we
refer to as a comeback or a retort.
l believe in French it's '' riposte.''
Good news, your father's
spirit guide has allowed him...
...to leave his crystals and meditation
mat to come to New York on business.
And he wants to see you tonight.
And this is good news
on what planet?
The one where child-support
payments are still being negotiated.
Here's your bus ticket.
l don't suppose l have
any choice in this matter.
Well, of course you do.
You can sit up front near the driver
or back near the restrooms.
Bon voyage.
Sorry to step on your exit line,
but l don't think we're finished here.
My station's closed down.
These need to go
to the storeroom tonight.
This is definitely my kind of place.
lt's a place you're gonna
see very little of.
Remember, we get
the car and leave.
-lt might be kind of difficult.
-No, it won't.
Well, if that's the car you're planning
on driving out of here, yes it will.
That lying jerk. l can't believe
l fell for his crap again.
Don't you think you're
being tough on the jerk?
-l'm sure there's an explanation.
-Yeah, there always is.
Bye, Nick. l'll call you later.
Gretchen! My God,
you look beautiful.
You son of a bitch.
-l can explain.
-l don't wanna hear it.
l want my car back and to get
as far away from you as possible.
l know l said it was fine.
But this morning, when l checked, the
solenoid assembly was clogged, so--
-Solenoid assembly?
-The carburettor.
-lt draws air into the--
-l know what the carburettor is...
...and l know you don't
need to remove the tires to unclog it.
Remember all your road trips?
Low tread.
l knew l risked losing
your trust, all right?
And frankly, you can
hate my guts all you want.
lt hurts. But not as much as if
something happened to you.
l couldn't live with that.
Thanks for looking out for her, man.
Yeah. Nick Taylor is a renowned
protector of women.
Her name's Laura Wolner.
She's a junior geology major.
-l don't really care.
-She lives here.
-That's her problem.
-Except for tonight.
l asked her for a favour.
She'll stay at her mom's
so you can have her room.
lf you want to leave,
we'll fix the car and you're gone.
Since all your old friends are gonna
be here, l figured you'd be up late.
Might be nice to have
a comfortable place to crash.
God help me.
Laura's room is first on the left.
By the time you get washed up...
...me and Pacey will have
a veggie burger with your name on it.
You think you know me
so well, don't you?
As well as any guy can.
You like imported beer, Pacey?
l'll see you tonight, Evelyn.
l can hardly wait, Arthur.
lf you value your life, not a word.
l thought you might be able to give
these clothes away at the church.
Oh, Dawson, thank you.
So....
Are you two...?
Are you two dating?
Oh, Dawson. Please.
At my age, one does not date.
lt sounded like you were gonna
see him later tonight.
We're simply having dinner at your
parents' restaurant...
...and then we are going to Rialto 1 6
to see Almost Famous.
Dinner and a movie on a Saturday
is pretty much the definition of a date.
Dawson, are you
this protective of Jennifer?
Jen is well-versed in the pitfalls
and problems of relationships.
Although l have not felt this way since
Jennifer's grandfather passed on...
...l assure you,
l also am well-versed.
Thank you for
your concern, Dawson.
You know what your problem is?
Drue, the only problem
l have in my life right now...
...is that l have to be around you.
Fortunately, as soon as l
put these dishes away...
...l am on break from my problem.
Don't touch me, please.
lt's creepy enough
to be in here with you.
Fine.
lf you move those boxes....
So we'll open it.
lt's not a problem. Okay?
This could be a problem.
There's got to be another way out.
Oh, there's another way out...
...when the cleaning
crew arrives Monday morning.
Hello? Anyone there?
You're gonna hurt yourself
if you keep doing that.
l'm going to hurt you
if you don't shut up.
-Going to freshen your face?
-l'm going to pick the lock.
-An eyebrow pencil.
-You have a better idea?
-Do l look like MacGyver?
-He was smart enough...
...not to move a box
propping open a door.
Well, you know, if you would have
just accepted my help...
...we wouldn't be here
in the first place.
Now l know why you're still a virgin.
You have trust issues with men.
Not to mention some rather dubious
grooming habits.
-What do you think you're doing?
-Taking inventory of our rations.
We have my Slim Jim, two Altoids-- We
could have a snack and fresh breath.
lf you try to touch me
or my stuff one more time...
...l'll take this pencil and put it
through your heart. Am l clear?
-Crystal.
-Good.
You should really try and clean out
your brush occasionally because you--
lmagine an environment
where the whole city is your age.
Beer flows like tap water.
Parties are ubiquitous and eternal.
And the whole thing's paid for by
cheap, long-term government loans.
-This is the life.
-Let's face it. High school sucks.
Man was not created to spend seven
hours a day, five days a week...
-...crammed into a desk.
-The system panders...
...to the lowest
common denominator.
-Standardized tests.
-Standardized courses.
-Standardized lunches.
-Exactly.
And that's why anyone
who isn't standard doesn't fit in.
College is a fresh start, you know?
You get to be
whoever you wanna be.
Why am l not surprised to see
the two of you getting along?
-l like this guy, Gretchen.
-Two peas in a pod.
More like two slackers in a tub.
Care to join us in the healing waters?
lt does wonders for the soul.
My soul is just fine.
Hey, Gretchen, over here.
No offence, but l must say,
all of her is fine.
No offence taken.
And now that you mention it...
...she can really use a guy
like you in her life.
-She doesn't have a guy back home?
-No.
l'm telling you,
you should go for it, my friend.
Eighteen years apart?
l mean, that's wild.
When this kid graduates high school,
you're gonna be like 36.
He's just-- Well, he or she is just
gonna be beginning their life...
...and yours will be pretty much over.
And you're not listening to a word
that l'm saying, are you, Dawson?
No. Sorry.
Oh, well.
What's going on?
l'm worried about Grams.
l'm afraid she'll get her heart broken.
l thought her heart
belonged to the Lord.
And possibly Mr. Brooks.
You gotta be kidding me.
Are you sure about that?
lt's getting to be like
On Golden Pond there.
Hey, good for her. Now she's got
somebody to keep her company.
You know, read with, build fires with.
After all, she did say that,
'' Love is the hardest of woods.''
Brooks is sick, Jack.
He's dying.
Oh, God.
l don't....
l mean, after what
happened with her husband...
...how could she fall
for somebody who's dying?
Well, obviously she doesn't know.
He hasn't told her.
Well, then you have to.
-Me?
-Someone has to. lf you don't, l will.
lf you could have seen
how happy she was.
She's only happy because
she doesn't know the truth.
Well, maybe that's
not such a bad thing.
Okay.
You were happy before
you found out...
...about Pacey and Joey
seeing each other.
Would you have
rather stayed in the dark...
...or would you have
rather someone come to you...
...and told you the difficult truth
at the beginning?
lf l was the one in here
with the sweater, l would share it.
Let me think about it.
No.
Okay, but l want you to know,
if something happens to me...
...you have my permission to pursue
whatever indelicate, life-sustaining...
...tastes-just-like-chicken
measures you see fit.
There's some cans up there. Maybe
we can dig up something to eat.
You're gonna fall and break your neck.
At which point, l'm taking your sweater.
Wonder who they'll get to play you
in the TV version of our ordeal, huh?
Probably a teen-series idol
trying to break into features.
-Would you just shut up?
-Okay, you go right ahead.
l'm sure Lacey Chabert can't wait
to cop an attitude and win the Emmy.
We can't eat this.
This expired, like, when l was born.
Could have just said thanks.
Must be kind of tough
out there, huh?
l have a life now. l have friends, l
have a job, a great place by the water.
Come on. You don't miss it
just a little bit?
This? No way.
-l don't believe you.
-lt's true.
-There's that thing.
-What thing?
That thing you do when you're hiding
something. You stick out your chin.
-l do not.
-Yes, you do.
You know what always drove me crazy
about you, Gretchen?
That little line right there
on your chin.
lt's not gonna work, Nick.
-What?
-Don't play, '' l'm just a sensitive boy...
...who needs to be
understood'' with me.
l'm not gonna go upstairs
to see your guitar.
lt is so good to see
you guys together. Honestly.
Can you believe
that this woman is still single...
...considering what
an amazing catch she is?
Before you try and show my teeth to
prove what good breeding stock l am...
...you'll have to excuse me.
You know she's crazy
about you, right?
She talked about you the whole ride up.
lt's like you were meant to be together.
So whatever happened?
Our lives just moved
in two separate directions.
l think l see someone that wants
to move in your direction.
-l don't think that's a grand idea.
-Her name's Christie.
She likes horses, water sports,
and back rubs from guys just like you.
-You can't go wrong.
-Oh, but l can go wrong.
There's someone back home
who would think that's a very bad idea.
That certain someone here?
l don't think so.
And l am definitely not
gonna say anything.
Second room upstairs to the left.
Condoms are in the cigar box
next to the futon.
l'm gonna go
talk to your sister.
-Nick....
-Hey, don't mention it, man.
Guys like me and you,
we gotta look out for each other.
Oh, Dawson, come in. Come in.
Hi. l'm on my way....
l'm on my way over
to Mr. Brooks' but l just....
-Wow.
-What? What is it?
You look beautiful.
Well, thank you. l....
Well, l hope this dress
isn't too much.
Wouldn't want anyone to think
we were dating.
Getting into a new relationship
can be intoxicating.
l noticed you aren't bearing
any clothes for the church...
...and l know that you know Jennifer
is away at a fishing concert.
Phish broke up.
lt's Widespread Panic.
I know a bank
where the wild thyme blows
Where oxlips
and the nodding violet grows
Oh, dear. Now what was it
you wanted to talk about, Dawson?
l just wanted to say,
have a great time tonight.
l know he's sick.
You do?
lsn't that what you
were trying to tell me?
-So he told you?
-Of course not.
Arthur Brooks wouldn't just
come right out and tell someone that.
-How did you know?
-l've been a nurse for 47 years...
...and a woman a few years
longer than that.
But if you know, how can you start
something with him?
lt's very simple.
We laugh together. We--
We share the same interests.
We look at life the same way.
Do you know how hard it is
to find a friend like that, Dawson?
Yeah, l think l do.
l also know how hard it can be
when that doesn't last.
A moment...
...a single moment of true joy
is more powerful...
...than a lifetime of sorrow.
Let me tell you,
your ex puts the A in '' hole.''
That man is just a world-class jerk.
l know that, Pacey. l tried to tell you.
Well, l guess we've both
had enough of him for tonight, right?
You don't need to protect me.
He's the reason you
left school, isn't he?
l am the reason
that l left school.
So what happened?
What did he do to you?
Nothing l didn't allow to happen.
Look, it's my fault too. l can't just
blame him and neither should you.
For what?
l got pregnant.
l had a miscarriage.
l'm sorry, Gretch.
l would not have tried to force
the two of you back together.
l'm...
...sorry.
So how did he react
when he found out?
He doesn't know.
l didn't want to interrupt his plans
to sleep with half the Theta house.
What a dick.
What a dick. l can't believe
l was hanging out with that guy...
...thinking how cool he was.
l am gonna....
No. No, you are not.
Okay, l am not a victim here, Pacey.
And l don't want him to know.
You know, nobody knows
about this except Dawson.
You told Dawson Leery
before you told me?
-He's my friend.
-l'm your brother.
With a very specific idea of how
a sister is supposed to behave.
l left school to work on who
l want to be, you know.
l can't try fitting that into everybody
else's idea of what that is. You know?
Fair enough. At least you now know
who Nick really is.
Pacey, everything
that you liked about him...
-...l still like about him too.
-Hey.
-Hey.
-Did you miss me?
God, I miss her.
l don't understand why you would
cut the scene before it's over.
-Nobody's saying anything.
-Look at your face.
Look at that expression. That says
more than any words ever could.
You're developing a pretty
good eye, Mr. Leery.
You're hanging out with the
right people these days.
lt would seem so.
Before you run off, l wonder
if you could help me with something.
Sure.
Evelyn Ryan and l have been
spending a lot of time together lately...
...and l've grown rather fond of her.
l'd like her to know that.
So....
You think it's too much?
l'm not the person
to talk to about that.
What's wrong? Bother you
that two adults are keeping company?
No, l just don't think it's my place
to give advice about this.
ls that because a dying man just
told you that he's fond of a woman...
...who's like
a grandmother to you?
You have any idea what she
went through with her late husband?
-Actually, l do.
-Well, then--
'' lf l care about her, how could l
put her through all that again?''
-Exactly.
-One thing worse...
...than the pain of loss,
is the aching void of inaction.
She's not the kind of person
who can live with that.
She knows l'm sick.
So she knows,
and you know she knows...
...and neither one of you
said anything about it.
No need. Get to the end of the race,
it's both obvious and inevitable.
Make no mistake about it, kid,
God intends to kill us all.
You'll find that you don't have to
have your life dictated by the cosmos.
You fall in love with the wrong woman,
you tell fate to piss off...
...you don't
like its plans for you.
Sure there's heartache to be had,
but it's a small price to pay...
...for living and dying
on your own terms.
Give her the earrings.
Thank you, kid.
You ever think about me?
-Rarely.
-Chin.
Occasionally.
-l think about you.
-Yeah?
Remember when we
locked ourselves in my room...
...and studied
for that astronomy midterm?
We failed the test the next day.
Yes, we did.
But it was worth it, wasn't it?
We've had a lot
of good times together.
'' Had'' being the operative word.
We are past tense.
No, we're old friends.
The best thing about an old friend
is that they know you.
They know
what makes you tick.
There are a lot of things you
don't know about me, Nick.
A lot's happened to me since l left.
l know you've gotten more beautiful.
Do you want to come up
to my room and talk about it?
-You're drunk.
-You're gorgeous.
Do you ever change?
You know who l am.
l mean, isn't that why you came?
Don't tell me it was to pick up your car,
because we both know that's not true.
You've come a long distance.
Don't you want to go
the rest of the way?
-Look you're supposed to--
-Back off.
-l was just trying to help.
-lf l get any more help...
...l'll be spending
freshman year in traction.
lf anyone should
be upset, it should be me.
-What? You tried to kill me.
-You tried to kiss me.
l saved your life.
l was just acting on the moment.
Yeah, well, so was l.
How'd a girl like you get so mean?
-l'm not mean.
-Are you kidding?
The busboys are terrified of you.
They call you '' el toro.''
Really?
Well, you know, when you're used
to living on your own, you...
...learn how to take care of yourself,
and you develop a thick outer shell.
And a pretty decent right cross.
You know, at least
your father's in prison.
To spend time with my dad
is like being in prison.
l thought your dad was
this wealthy businessman--
Yeah, who seemed like the coolest
guy in the world until...
...the day l discovered him fervently
studying the Kama Sutra...
...on my mother's new
Mexican tile kitchen floor...
...with someone who was
most definitely not my mother.
Bless you.
Just keep your hands
where l can see them.
So where's your beau this evening?
Will he be frantically checking
hospitals for you?
He's on a road trip
with his sister.
How do you stay
in a relationship with someone...
...who is so different from you?
-We're not that different.
-Oh, please.
You're responsible and reasonable.
He's reckless and rash.
Yeah, but part of his recklessness
is that he's constantly surprising me.
And part of his rashness is that
he's intensely passionate.
Those differences are important.
They make for a richer relationship.
Maybe in high school. But last l heard,
Harvard wasn't admitting...
...the rash boyfriends of candidates
to keep the cutest couple together.
Would you like a broken nose
to go along with that black eye?
Lighten up.
Looks like you were
expecting company.
l missed you, Gretchen.
l can't believe l'm doing this.
Why?
You knew this
was gonna happen.
You've been thinking
about this since you left.
l know you, Gretchen.
l know how you think.
Well, what am l thinking
right now?
You're thinking that my arms
feel amazing around you.
That l fit you like a puzzle piece
that's been missing.
And that you could lose yourself
in me for the rest of the night...
...and never look back.
You know, that used to be enough.
l'm what they told you
to stay away from, huh?
The cookie jar high on the shelf.
The person that's wrong for you.
But, see, that's why
a girl like you...
...wants a guy like me.
You're totally right.
And do you know
what l just realized?
l'm not that girl anymore.
Nick?
Nick?
Thank you, Nick Taylor.
Hey.
l've finished up
the work on the car.
l found your tires
on the side of the house.
All you needed were flats patched.
The treads were fine.
Thank you.
l fixed the car. Wish
l could do the same for your life.
-Pacey--
-l don't understand...
...why you'd fall for such a
self-centred jerk like Nick.
l know that you were a cheerleader...
...and always had good grades
and good behaviour...
...and good boyfriends,
and l can understand that...
...you just got tired of being good
all the time and people get tempted.
But why this guy?
He's an ass.
l guess it's kind of my fault.
l pushed you.
No, this is not your fault.
Well, it is kinda my fault.
l wanted you to be with him.
l wanted you to be
with somebody that l understood.
l wanted you to be with somebody
who was maybe a little more like me.
-You are nothing like Nick.
-Well, regardless....
You deserve someone who's gonna
listen to you and commit to you.
Someone who's going to make you
the centre of their universe.
-You deserve somebody--
-Someone like Dawson?
That's not what l said.
That's what you meant.
Nothing happened last night, Pacey.
lt almost did until....
Until l realized why l came here.
Well, didn't you come here
to see Nick?
No. l came to say
goodbye to Nick.
More importantly,
goodbye to a part of myself...
...that l've always struggled with.
And do you know where
l got the strength to say goodbye?
From you.
Starting from childhood,
sisters look to their brothers...
...for cues on how they should be
treated. And you're right.
l deserve so much better
than Nick.
And my heart knows that because
l have a brother who treats me so well.
So-- Wait, hold on a second.
Does this mean you also realize
that you need better music?
l have this Pink Floyd CD
l think you'll love--
That's okay.
There's a certain CD mix
that l wanna listen to.
Okay.
-See you at home.
-Yes.
See you back there.
Jack, do you believe in inevitability?
You mean do l think l busted
my shoulder because of fate?
Yeah. Do you ever wonder if you
could've changed what happened?
You have no idea how many times
l have thought about that one.
What if l would have caught
the ball differently? You know...
...hit the ground differently,
brushed my teeth longer...
...arriving to practice
two seconds later?
-And the answer?
-The answer is l don't know.
l'm sick of thinking about it.
Thinking about it
is more debilitating than the injury.
Brooks is dying...
...and he's actively pursuing
a relationship with Grams...
...who knows, but doesn't mind.
Well, maybe he finds strength in taking
action, and maybe she finds comfort...
...in her religion.
l mean, the arbitrary nature of life
and love can be frightening.
Everybody has their own way
of coping with it.
Even you.
What does that mean?
Well, don't you think it's possible,
what's driving this Tao of yours...
...is nothing more than fear?
l'm trying not to make the same
mistakes l've made in the past.
Has it ever occurred to you,
Dawson-san, that maybe...
...they're not mistakes? Maybe this
is where you're supposed to be...
...at this moment in time.
With a girl that you wanted
way before Joey Potter...
...holding a letter that expresses
exactly how you feel about her.
-Thought it was just a nightmare.
-Good morning to you too.
Did you actually sleep?
l couldn't. Someone was sawing
some serious lumber.
l do not snore.
You could have laid waste
to an entire national forest.
l'm surprised
l could even sleep.
Are you aware
of the 24-hour antiperspirant?
What's that buzzing?
What's what buzzing?
There's something buzzing.
-Go back to sleep, you're dreaming.
-lt's in your pocket. What is that?
Hey, l'd like a dinner and a movie
before we get to that.
You've had this in your
pocket the whole time?
Oh, yeah. l forgot.
Hello?
Yes, we're in the
basement storage room.
You can talk to him
when you get down here.
-What's left of him.
-We're saved!
-You orchestrated this whole thing!
-Why would l do that?
Because you are a sick,
twisted, pathological little pervert.
You think l'd go through this to
have you sleep on my shoulder?
How do l know what you did
while l was sleeping?
l resent that.
l was a complete gentleman.
l absolutely did not peek down
your shirt at your eggshell-coloured...
...34C Maidenform wire-rimmed bra...
...with the little cute little
pink bow on the front clasp.
-Mother, thank God.
-My God!
What have you done to my son?
Ask him. lt was all his doing.
You suggest that my son
would rather be locked in a closet...
...with you than spend the weekend
with his father?
l'll see you at school, Drue.
Dear Gretchen.:
I really enjoyed talking
to you in your room today.
Try not to be nerv ous
about starting high school.
I know you're gonna find people
who understand you.
There's something that
I didn't get a chance to tell you.
There's someone truly special in my
life that I can't stop thinking about.
She's unlik e anyone
I've ever met.
Smart and funny and beautiful.
Just knowing that she's in my life...
...has given me this constant fluttering
that k eeps me awak e at night.
When I think about
who I can talk to about this...
... the only person
that comes to mind is you.
And that's a problem...
...because you are the one
that I feel this way about.
I think about you constantly,
every little thing you do.
The Elvis Costello stick er
you put in your spiral notebook.
The way your bangs
have grown out for six months...
... until Monday when you were
finally able to put it all in a ponytail.
And today, when you invited me to
stay and talk to you after Pacey left...
... it occurred to me that you
must think about me too.
If I tried to tell anyone else, they would
say that you and I are impossible...
... that our lives are too different, that
we could never be right for each other.
But we understand each other,
and we care about each other.
And years from now,
I believe that we still will.
Your friend forever.
Love, Dawson.
What took you so long?
l had a few things to do first.
Or maybe the fish are still asleep.
Fish don't sleep, Pacey.
Yeah, l'm really glad
we're hanging out...
...but did our first jaunt together
in months really have to be at sunrise?
l've got something to tell you that
l have a feeling will keep you awake.
l like your sister, Pacey.
You like her,
or you '' like her'' like her?
l'm talking about Gretchen Witter,
not Winnie Cooper.
Are we talking about the feelings
of fondness and fellowship...
...that naturally follow
from an obligatory mistletoe kiss...
...or will l find you outside my house
holding a boom box over your head?
l'm crazy about her.
Well, you've had a crush on her
for years. That's all this is, right?
No, this is more
than a grade-school crush.
Even though she won't
acknowledge it...
...l think on some level she feels
the same way about me.
lt's a hell of a lot to digest
before breakfast, Dawson.
Last spring, if you'd told
me how you felt about Joey...
...it would have made things a lot
easier. That's all l'm trying to do.
Dawson, you and l are friends.
Friends. But sisters-- Sisters are....
-Off-limits?
-Yes, sisters are off-limits.
They're like mothers, only pretty.
l'm not asking for your permission,
Pace. l'm just letting you know.
So, what are your plans?
My plans?
Yeah, to pursue my sister.
-What are you gonna do?
-Nothing.
Nothing?
Well, what kind of plan
is '' nothing''?
Well, l've just decided
to let things play out.
One thing l learned after last spring
is that some things can't be forced.
So then your plan would be
to not have a plan.
Exactly.
The Tao of Dawson
is to do nothing.
Done nothing so far,
and we've already kissed.
l figure the best thing l can do
is just keep on doing nothing.
What's with the rush?
At this speed, l can get to school,
grab my car and get out before dark.
Your car's been at school for months,
now your friends borrowed it too long?
Friend.
Well, actually, ex-boyfriend.
Nick has had your car
this whole time?
-l always liked that guy.
-You don't know him.
Nick and me? Dos amigos.
You sat with him two hours
when l brought him for Christmas.
So l know he likes the Patriots,
pretzels and a good party.
He'd rather sleep and sail than study,
plus the man has great taste in music.
His favourite song is '' Freebird.''
-You just described yourself.
-Well, great men think alike.
l think it's wonderful the two of you will
be able to spend quality time together.
Does your sudden proclivity for my
ex-boyfriend have anything to do...
-...with a fair-haired pal of yours?
-Who, Dawson?
Why should l care? You assured me
that kiss meant nothing.
You know, even though,
it didn't really look like nothing...
...because it went on
a little bit long to be nothing.
l think he doesn't think it's nothing. But
if you said it's nothing, it's nothing.
Dawson and l are just friends.
That's it, trust me.
Okay, l guess you've
earned my trust.
This music doesn't
entirely suck.
''Great tunes for Gretchen
from Dawson.''
That would be Leery.
So he made you a mix CD?
How sweet.
Did l mention that Nick is not only
smart, but also quite handsome?
l mean, really, he's a good-looking
guy. He works out, doesn't he?
Did you think it was weird
when Andie was dating Pacey?
Not really. Why?
Because Pacey really doesn't
like the idea of Gretchen and me.
Well, sure. l mean, she's his sister,
and you're his close friend.
l didn't know Pacey when he
hooked up with Andie.
But if l had to think
about you and Andie....
Let's not go there.
Dawson may have a sister soon.
Then he'll understand.
Or a brother. l find out in
a couple hours, right?
Well, no. Actually, honey,
we've changed our mind again.
l mean, should we
use technology to cheat...
...what may be
life's last great mystery?
Or is it anticlimactic to wait
until the baby is born?
Whatever you guys decide,
let me know...
...so l know what to do with
the pink and blue paint l have on hold.
-Good point.
-Come on, we'll decide in the car.
Good luck.
Oh, my God.
What's that?
l told you l used to write
Gretchen silly little letters?
-Yeah.
-This is the last one l wrote.
The one l never sent.
Oh, God. This is embarrassing.
l'm all gushing and lovesick.
Maybe you should...
...say some of that to her now.
No. l told her how l feel.
-Not like that, l bet.
-No, l told her like an adult.
Maybe if you acted more like a kid,
you might be with her.
Last time l acted like a kid
l ended up...
...trying to prove something
in a boat race. Remember that?
Oh, yeah.
Not my finest moment.
Besides, she knows how
l feel about her, you know.
lf it's meant to be, it'll be.
lf not, that's the way it goes.
Zen and the art of dating. Congrats,
you've created a new movement.
Yeah.
Closed for renovation.
You know, this free time presents
sort of a steak-or-lobster dilemma.
Now, do l go cheerleader
or drama club chick tonight?
-What do you think?
-Flip a coin.
Heads is bimbo, tails is skank.
Where's the love, huh?
After working with you for the last
six days, l don't know, l guess l lost it.
How do you plan
to observe your Sabbath?
Oh, a relaxing little experience known
as researching my English term paper.
Let me guess: '' How to Keep
a Boyfriend and Your Virginity...
...or: The Many Uses
of the Human Hand.''
Finally a subject
you know all about.
Very good, Joey. That's what we
refer to as a comeback or a retort.
l believe in French it's '' riposte.''
Good news, your father's
spirit guide has allowed him...
...to leave his crystals and meditation
mat to come to New York on business.
And he wants to see you tonight.
And this is good news
on what planet?
The one where child-support
payments are still being negotiated.
Here's your bus ticket.
l don't suppose l have
any choice in this matter.
Well, of course you do.
You can sit up front near the driver
or back near the restrooms.
Bon voyage.
Sorry to step on your exit line,
but l don't think we're finished here.
My station's closed down.
These need to go
to the storeroom tonight.
This is definitely my kind of place.
lt's a place you're gonna
see very little of.
Remember, we get
the car and leave.
-lt might be kind of difficult.
-No, it won't.
Well, if that's the car you're planning
on driving out of here, yes it will.
That lying jerk. l can't believe
l fell for his crap again.
Don't you think you're
being tough on the jerk?
-l'm sure there's an explanation.
-Yeah, there always is.
Bye, Nick. l'll call you later.
Gretchen! My God,
you look beautiful.
You son of a bitch.
-l can explain.
-l don't wanna hear it.
l want my car back and to get
as far away from you as possible.
l know l said it was fine.
But this morning, when l checked, the
solenoid assembly was clogged, so--
-Solenoid assembly?
-The carburettor.
-lt draws air into the--
-l know what the carburettor is...
...and l know you don't
need to remove the tires to unclog it.
Remember all your road trips?
Low tread.
l knew l risked losing
your trust, all right?
And frankly, you can
hate my guts all you want.
lt hurts. But not as much as if
something happened to you.
l couldn't live with that.
Thanks for looking out for her, man.
Yeah. Nick Taylor is a renowned
protector of women.
Her name's Laura Wolner.
She's a junior geology major.
-l don't really care.
-She lives here.
-That's her problem.
-Except for tonight.
l asked her for a favour.
She'll stay at her mom's
so you can have her room.
lf you want to leave,
we'll fix the car and you're gone.
Since all your old friends are gonna
be here, l figured you'd be up late.
Might be nice to have
a comfortable place to crash.
God help me.
Laura's room is first on the left.
By the time you get washed up...
...me and Pacey will have
a veggie burger with your name on it.
You think you know me
so well, don't you?
As well as any guy can.
You like imported beer, Pacey?
l'll see you tonight, Evelyn.
l can hardly wait, Arthur.
lf you value your life, not a word.
l thought you might be able to give
these clothes away at the church.
Oh, Dawson, thank you.
So....
Are you two...?
Are you two dating?
Oh, Dawson. Please.
At my age, one does not date.
lt sounded like you were gonna
see him later tonight.
We're simply having dinner at your
parents' restaurant...
...and then we are going to Rialto 1 6
to see Almost Famous.
Dinner and a movie on a Saturday
is pretty much the definition of a date.
Dawson, are you
this protective of Jennifer?
Jen is well-versed in the pitfalls
and problems of relationships.
Although l have not felt this way since
Jennifer's grandfather passed on...
...l assure you,
l also am well-versed.
Thank you for
your concern, Dawson.
You know what your problem is?
Drue, the only problem
l have in my life right now...
...is that l have to be around you.
Fortunately, as soon as l
put these dishes away...
...l am on break from my problem.
Don't touch me, please.
lt's creepy enough
to be in here with you.
Fine.
lf you move those boxes....
So we'll open it.
lt's not a problem. Okay?
This could be a problem.
There's got to be another way out.
Oh, there's another way out...
...when the cleaning
crew arrives Monday morning.
Hello? Anyone there?
You're gonna hurt yourself
if you keep doing that.
l'm going to hurt you
if you don't shut up.
-Going to freshen your face?
-l'm going to pick the lock.
-An eyebrow pencil.
-You have a better idea?
-Do l look like MacGyver?
-He was smart enough...
...not to move a box
propping open a door.
Well, you know, if you would have
just accepted my help...
...we wouldn't be here
in the first place.
Now l know why you're still a virgin.
You have trust issues with men.
Not to mention some rather dubious
grooming habits.
-What do you think you're doing?
-Taking inventory of our rations.
We have my Slim Jim, two Altoids-- We
could have a snack and fresh breath.
lf you try to touch me
or my stuff one more time...
...l'll take this pencil and put it
through your heart. Am l clear?
-Crystal.
-Good.
You should really try and clean out
your brush occasionally because you--
lmagine an environment
where the whole city is your age.
Beer flows like tap water.
Parties are ubiquitous and eternal.
And the whole thing's paid for by
cheap, long-term government loans.
-This is the life.
-Let's face it. High school sucks.
Man was not created to spend seven
hours a day, five days a week...
-...crammed into a desk.
-The system panders...
...to the lowest
common denominator.
-Standardized tests.
-Standardized courses.
-Standardized lunches.
-Exactly.
And that's why anyone
who isn't standard doesn't fit in.
College is a fresh start, you know?
You get to be
whoever you wanna be.
Why am l not surprised to see
the two of you getting along?
-l like this guy, Gretchen.
-Two peas in a pod.
More like two slackers in a tub.
Care to join us in the healing waters?
lt does wonders for the soul.
My soul is just fine.
Hey, Gretchen, over here.
No offence, but l must say,
all of her is fine.
No offence taken.
And now that you mention it...
...she can really use a guy
like you in her life.
-She doesn't have a guy back home?
-No.
l'm telling you,
you should go for it, my friend.
Eighteen years apart?
l mean, that's wild.
When this kid graduates high school,
you're gonna be like 36.
He's just-- Well, he or she is just
gonna be beginning their life...
...and yours will be pretty much over.
And you're not listening to a word
that l'm saying, are you, Dawson?
No. Sorry.
Oh, well.
What's going on?
l'm worried about Grams.
l'm afraid she'll get her heart broken.
l thought her heart
belonged to the Lord.
And possibly Mr. Brooks.
You gotta be kidding me.
Are you sure about that?
lt's getting to be like
On Golden Pond there.
Hey, good for her. Now she's got
somebody to keep her company.
You know, read with, build fires with.
After all, she did say that,
'' Love is the hardest of woods.''
Brooks is sick, Jack.
He's dying.
Oh, God.
l don't....
l mean, after what
happened with her husband...
...how could she fall
for somebody who's dying?
Well, obviously she doesn't know.
He hasn't told her.
Well, then you have to.
-Me?
-Someone has to. lf you don't, l will.
lf you could have seen
how happy she was.
She's only happy because
she doesn't know the truth.
Well, maybe that's
not such a bad thing.
Okay.
You were happy before
you found out...
...about Pacey and Joey
seeing each other.
Would you have
rather stayed in the dark...
...or would you have
rather someone come to you...
...and told you the difficult truth
at the beginning?
lf l was the one in here
with the sweater, l would share it.
Let me think about it.
No.
Okay, but l want you to know,
if something happens to me...
...you have my permission to pursue
whatever indelicate, life-sustaining...
...tastes-just-like-chicken
measures you see fit.
There's some cans up there. Maybe
we can dig up something to eat.
You're gonna fall and break your neck.
At which point, l'm taking your sweater.
Wonder who they'll get to play you
in the TV version of our ordeal, huh?
Probably a teen-series idol
trying to break into features.
-Would you just shut up?
-Okay, you go right ahead.
l'm sure Lacey Chabert can't wait
to cop an attitude and win the Emmy.
We can't eat this.
This expired, like, when l was born.
Could have just said thanks.
Must be kind of tough
out there, huh?
l have a life now. l have friends, l
have a job, a great place by the water.
Come on. You don't miss it
just a little bit?
This? No way.
-l don't believe you.
-lt's true.
-There's that thing.
-What thing?
That thing you do when you're hiding
something. You stick out your chin.
-l do not.
-Yes, you do.
You know what always drove me crazy
about you, Gretchen?
That little line right there
on your chin.
lt's not gonna work, Nick.
-What?
-Don't play, '' l'm just a sensitive boy...
...who needs to be
understood'' with me.
l'm not gonna go upstairs
to see your guitar.
lt is so good to see
you guys together. Honestly.
Can you believe
that this woman is still single...
...considering what
an amazing catch she is?
Before you try and show my teeth to
prove what good breeding stock l am...
...you'll have to excuse me.
You know she's crazy
about you, right?
She talked about you the whole ride up.
lt's like you were meant to be together.
So whatever happened?
Our lives just moved
in two separate directions.
l think l see someone that wants
to move in your direction.
-l don't think that's a grand idea.
-Her name's Christie.
She likes horses, water sports,
and back rubs from guys just like you.
-You can't go wrong.
-Oh, but l can go wrong.
There's someone back home
who would think that's a very bad idea.
That certain someone here?
l don't think so.
And l am definitely not
gonna say anything.
Second room upstairs to the left.
Condoms are in the cigar box
next to the futon.
l'm gonna go
talk to your sister.
-Nick....
-Hey, don't mention it, man.
Guys like me and you,
we gotta look out for each other.
Oh, Dawson, come in. Come in.
Hi. l'm on my way....
l'm on my way over
to Mr. Brooks' but l just....
-Wow.
-What? What is it?
You look beautiful.
Well, thank you. l....
Well, l hope this dress
isn't too much.
Wouldn't want anyone to think
we were dating.
Getting into a new relationship
can be intoxicating.
l noticed you aren't bearing
any clothes for the church...
...and l know that you know Jennifer
is away at a fishing concert.
Phish broke up.
lt's Widespread Panic.
I know a bank
where the wild thyme blows
Where oxlips
and the nodding violet grows
Oh, dear. Now what was it
you wanted to talk about, Dawson?
l just wanted to say,
have a great time tonight.
l know he's sick.
You do?
lsn't that what you
were trying to tell me?
-So he told you?
-Of course not.
Arthur Brooks wouldn't just
come right out and tell someone that.
-How did you know?
-l've been a nurse for 47 years...
...and a woman a few years
longer than that.
But if you know, how can you start
something with him?
lt's very simple.
We laugh together. We--
We share the same interests.
We look at life the same way.
Do you know how hard it is
to find a friend like that, Dawson?
Yeah, l think l do.
l also know how hard it can be
when that doesn't last.
A moment...
...a single moment of true joy
is more powerful...
...than a lifetime of sorrow.
Let me tell you,
your ex puts the A in '' hole.''
That man is just a world-class jerk.
l know that, Pacey. l tried to tell you.
Well, l guess we've both
had enough of him for tonight, right?
You don't need to protect me.
He's the reason you
left school, isn't he?
l am the reason
that l left school.
So what happened?
What did he do to you?
Nothing l didn't allow to happen.
Look, it's my fault too. l can't just
blame him and neither should you.
For what?
l got pregnant.
l had a miscarriage.
l'm sorry, Gretch.
l would not have tried to force
the two of you back together.
l'm...
...sorry.
So how did he react
when he found out?
He doesn't know.
l didn't want to interrupt his plans
to sleep with half the Theta house.
What a dick.
What a dick. l can't believe
l was hanging out with that guy...
...thinking how cool he was.
l am gonna....
No. No, you are not.
Okay, l am not a victim here, Pacey.
And l don't want him to know.
You know, nobody knows
about this except Dawson.
You told Dawson Leery
before you told me?
-He's my friend.
-l'm your brother.
With a very specific idea of how
a sister is supposed to behave.
l left school to work on who
l want to be, you know.
l can't try fitting that into everybody
else's idea of what that is. You know?
Fair enough. At least you now know
who Nick really is.
Pacey, everything
that you liked about him...
-...l still like about him too.
-Hey.
-Hey.
-Did you miss me?
God, I miss her.
l don't understand why you would
cut the scene before it's over.
-Nobody's saying anything.
-Look at your face.
Look at that expression. That says
more than any words ever could.
You're developing a pretty
good eye, Mr. Leery.
You're hanging out with the
right people these days.
lt would seem so.
Before you run off, l wonder
if you could help me with something.
Sure.
Evelyn Ryan and l have been
spending a lot of time together lately...
...and l've grown rather fond of her.
l'd like her to know that.
So....
You think it's too much?
l'm not the person
to talk to about that.
What's wrong? Bother you
that two adults are keeping company?
No, l just don't think it's my place
to give advice about this.
ls that because a dying man just
told you that he's fond of a woman...
...who's like
a grandmother to you?
You have any idea what she
went through with her late husband?
-Actually, l do.
-Well, then--
'' lf l care about her, how could l
put her through all that again?''
-Exactly.
-One thing worse...
...than the pain of loss,
is the aching void of inaction.
She's not the kind of person
who can live with that.
She knows l'm sick.
So she knows,
and you know she knows...
...and neither one of you
said anything about it.
No need. Get to the end of the race,
it's both obvious and inevitable.
Make no mistake about it, kid,
God intends to kill us all.
You'll find that you don't have to
have your life dictated by the cosmos.
You fall in love with the wrong woman,
you tell fate to piss off...
...you don't
like its plans for you.
Sure there's heartache to be had,
but it's a small price to pay...
...for living and dying
on your own terms.
Give her the earrings.
Thank you, kid.
You ever think about me?
-Rarely.
-Chin.
Occasionally.
-l think about you.
-Yeah?
Remember when we
locked ourselves in my room...
...and studied
for that astronomy midterm?
We failed the test the next day.
Yes, we did.
But it was worth it, wasn't it?
We've had a lot
of good times together.
'' Had'' being the operative word.
We are past tense.
No, we're old friends.
The best thing about an old friend
is that they know you.
They know
what makes you tick.
There are a lot of things you
don't know about me, Nick.
A lot's happened to me since l left.
l know you've gotten more beautiful.
Do you want to come up
to my room and talk about it?
-You're drunk.
-You're gorgeous.
Do you ever change?
You know who l am.
l mean, isn't that why you came?
Don't tell me it was to pick up your car,
because we both know that's not true.
You've come a long distance.
Don't you want to go
the rest of the way?
-Look you're supposed to--
-Back off.
-l was just trying to help.
-lf l get any more help...
...l'll be spending
freshman year in traction.
lf anyone should
be upset, it should be me.
-What? You tried to kill me.
-You tried to kiss me.
l saved your life.
l was just acting on the moment.
Yeah, well, so was l.
How'd a girl like you get so mean?
-l'm not mean.
-Are you kidding?
The busboys are terrified of you.
They call you '' el toro.''
Really?
Well, you know, when you're used
to living on your own, you...
...learn how to take care of yourself,
and you develop a thick outer shell.
And a pretty decent right cross.
You know, at least
your father's in prison.
To spend time with my dad
is like being in prison.
l thought your dad was
this wealthy businessman--
Yeah, who seemed like the coolest
guy in the world until...
...the day l discovered him fervently
studying the Kama Sutra...
...on my mother's new
Mexican tile kitchen floor...
...with someone who was
most definitely not my mother.
Bless you.
Just keep your hands
where l can see them.
So where's your beau this evening?
Will he be frantically checking
hospitals for you?
He's on a road trip
with his sister.
How do you stay
in a relationship with someone...
...who is so different from you?
-We're not that different.
-Oh, please.
You're responsible and reasonable.
He's reckless and rash.
Yeah, but part of his recklessness
is that he's constantly surprising me.
And part of his rashness is that
he's intensely passionate.
Those differences are important.
They make for a richer relationship.
Maybe in high school. But last l heard,
Harvard wasn't admitting...
...the rash boyfriends of candidates
to keep the cutest couple together.
Would you like a broken nose
to go along with that black eye?
Lighten up.
Looks like you were
expecting company.
l missed you, Gretchen.
l can't believe l'm doing this.
Why?
You knew this
was gonna happen.
You've been thinking
about this since you left.
l know you, Gretchen.
l know how you think.
Well, what am l thinking
right now?
You're thinking that my arms
feel amazing around you.
That l fit you like a puzzle piece
that's been missing.
And that you could lose yourself
in me for the rest of the night...
...and never look back.
You know, that used to be enough.
l'm what they told you
to stay away from, huh?
The cookie jar high on the shelf.
The person that's wrong for you.
But, see, that's why
a girl like you...
...wants a guy like me.
You're totally right.
And do you know
what l just realized?
l'm not that girl anymore.
Nick?
Nick?
Thank you, Nick Taylor.
Hey.
l've finished up
the work on the car.
l found your tires
on the side of the house.
All you needed were flats patched.
The treads were fine.
Thank you.
l fixed the car. Wish
l could do the same for your life.
-Pacey--
-l don't understand...
...why you'd fall for such a
self-centred jerk like Nick.
l know that you were a cheerleader...
...and always had good grades
and good behaviour...
...and good boyfriends,
and l can understand that...
...you just got tired of being good
all the time and people get tempted.
But why this guy?
He's an ass.
l guess it's kind of my fault.
l pushed you.
No, this is not your fault.
Well, it is kinda my fault.
l wanted you to be with him.
l wanted you to be
with somebody that l understood.
l wanted you to be with somebody
who was maybe a little more like me.
-You are nothing like Nick.
-Well, regardless....
You deserve someone who's gonna
listen to you and commit to you.
Someone who's going to make you
the centre of their universe.
-You deserve somebody--
-Someone like Dawson?
That's not what l said.
That's what you meant.
Nothing happened last night, Pacey.
lt almost did until....
Until l realized why l came here.
Well, didn't you come here
to see Nick?
No. l came to say
goodbye to Nick.
More importantly,
goodbye to a part of myself...
...that l've always struggled with.
And do you know where
l got the strength to say goodbye?
From you.
Starting from childhood,
sisters look to their brothers...
...for cues on how they should be
treated. And you're right.
l deserve so much better
than Nick.
And my heart knows that because
l have a brother who treats me so well.
So-- Wait, hold on a second.
Does this mean you also realize
that you need better music?
l have this Pink Floyd CD
l think you'll love--
That's okay.
There's a certain CD mix
that l wanna listen to.
Okay.
-See you at home.
-Yes.
See you back there.
Jack, do you believe in inevitability?
You mean do l think l busted
my shoulder because of fate?
Yeah. Do you ever wonder if you
could've changed what happened?
You have no idea how many times
l have thought about that one.
What if l would have caught
the ball differently? You know...
...hit the ground differently,
brushed my teeth longer...
...arriving to practice
two seconds later?
-And the answer?
-The answer is l don't know.
l'm sick of thinking about it.
Thinking about it
is more debilitating than the injury.
Brooks is dying...
...and he's actively pursuing
a relationship with Grams...
...who knows, but doesn't mind.
Well, maybe he finds strength in taking
action, and maybe she finds comfort...
...in her religion.
l mean, the arbitrary nature of life
and love can be frightening.
Everybody has their own way
of coping with it.
Even you.
What does that mean?
Well, don't you think it's possible,
what's driving this Tao of yours...
...is nothing more than fear?
l'm trying not to make the same
mistakes l've made in the past.
Has it ever occurred to you,
Dawson-san, that maybe...
...they're not mistakes? Maybe this
is where you're supposed to be...
...at this moment in time.
With a girl that you wanted
way before Joey Potter...
...holding a letter that expresses
exactly how you feel about her.
-Thought it was just a nightmare.
-Good morning to you too.
Did you actually sleep?
l couldn't. Someone was sawing
some serious lumber.
l do not snore.
You could have laid waste
to an entire national forest.
l'm surprised
l could even sleep.
Are you aware
of the 24-hour antiperspirant?
What's that buzzing?
What's what buzzing?
There's something buzzing.
-Go back to sleep, you're dreaming.
-lt's in your pocket. What is that?
Hey, l'd like a dinner and a movie
before we get to that.
You've had this in your
pocket the whole time?
Oh, yeah. l forgot.
Hello?
Yes, we're in the
basement storage room.
You can talk to him
when you get down here.
-What's left of him.
-We're saved!
-You orchestrated this whole thing!
-Why would l do that?
Because you are a sick,
twisted, pathological little pervert.
You think l'd go through this to
have you sleep on my shoulder?
How do l know what you did
while l was sleeping?
l resent that.
l was a complete gentleman.
l absolutely did not peek down
your shirt at your eggshell-coloured...
...34C Maidenform wire-rimmed bra...
...with the little cute little
pink bow on the front clasp.
-Mother, thank God.
-My God!
What have you done to my son?
Ask him. lt was all his doing.
You suggest that my son
would rather be locked in a closet...
...with you than spend the weekend
with his father?
l'll see you at school, Drue.
Dear Gretchen.:
I really enjoyed talking
to you in your room today.
Try not to be nerv ous
about starting high school.
I know you're gonna find people
who understand you.
There's something that
I didn't get a chance to tell you.
There's someone truly special in my
life that I can't stop thinking about.
She's unlik e anyone
I've ever met.
Smart and funny and beautiful.
Just knowing that she's in my life...
...has given me this constant fluttering
that k eeps me awak e at night.
When I think about
who I can talk to about this...
... the only person
that comes to mind is you.
And that's a problem...
...because you are the one
that I feel this way about.
I think about you constantly,
every little thing you do.
The Elvis Costello stick er
you put in your spiral notebook.
The way your bangs
have grown out for six months...
... until Monday when you were
finally able to put it all in a ponytail.
And today, when you invited me to
stay and talk to you after Pacey left...
... it occurred to me that you
must think about me too.
If I tried to tell anyone else, they would
say that you and I are impossible...
... that our lives are too different, that
we could never be right for each other.
But we understand each other,
and we care about each other.
And years from now,
I believe that we still will.
Your friend forever.
Love, Dawson.
What took you so long?
l had a few things to do first.