"I somehow knew there'd be a but in there."
"Well, you have always seemed more like a brother to me, or a good friend."
"We are friends, Doris."
"Yes, but I know you want more, Lee. You're older. You're looking to settle down."
"Yes, I am, but we haven't been going out long ..."
"Let me finish, Lee. This is so hard." She started chewing a nail, as was her habit. She caught herself in her nervous habit and stopped. "Well, Lee. I don't think it will work out between us. I mean, I'm Catholic. You're well ..."
"You can say it, Doris."
"Well, you're Jewish, or at least part Jewish, right?"
"Yes."
"Those two don't mix, Lee. I can't back away from my beliefs, but ... well, Lee, can we please stay friends?"
I broke out in a huge laugh, and with the laugh, I saw a slight smile grow on her
