He made the decision to keep things friendly in public.
So he challenged her to a hoop contest.
Then Bunter took Laurie back home.
And maybe he was a cad wanting one more time with her, but he couldn't help himself.
Laurie: Vinnie? Is something wrong?
Bunter: I need to talk to you.
Bunter: I think we need to...to put some space between us--just be friends.
Laurie: You're breaking up with me?
Bunter: I...we shouldn't have gotten so involved.
Laurie: You decide this now?
Bunter: I'm so sorry, Laurie. This was my fault.
Laurie: You're right about that! You approached me!
Bunter: I know you're upset. You've a right to be. But I didn't mean to hurt you.
Laurie: Well, you did!
Bunter: Laurie, please...
Laurie: Don't touch me, Vinnie! Just don't!
Bunter: You think I want to do this? I care about you, Laurie. I do!
Laurie: You have a funny way of showing it.
Bunter: It's this whole research thing. The reason you're here. You're vulnerable. Your recent trait change--you need time to adjust.
Laurie: So you're doing this for me? Hah!
Bunter: Honest, Laurie. I'm a selfish man and I want you. But you don't know what you want just now.
Laurie: Oh, Vinnie. I...I guess I understand.
Laurie: Goodbye, Vinnie.
Bunter: Laurie.
Laurie (holding back tears): I'm still mad at you, Vinnie Marvin Bunter! You're a lousy rat!
Bunter (sighing): I know.
After Laurie left for her own room, Bunter found Piers in the hall and asked to speak with him.
Bunter: I've broken it off with Laurie, M'lord.
Piers: I'm awfully sorry, Bunter. I would never have interfered in your personal life, but for that debacle with Mr Nair's treatment...and his natural rapport with Miss Melendez.
Bunter: I understand, sir. I wasn't thinking. It's best this way. Miss Melendez needs to be free to decide her own future.
Piers: Maybe you should spend some time away from the manor. Until things smooth over.
Bunter: You want me to leave, M'lord?
Piers: Only for a couple of days, old man. Why don't you stay over at the B&B in the village. It's comfortable enough.
Bunter: I see. You're right, of course.
Piers: Take the boat, Bunter. Do some fishing. Think of it as a short vacation.
Bunter: Fish, sir?
Piers: Sure, why not?
Bunter: Very good, M'lord. I shall endeavor to...fish.
Bunter gathered a few belongings and checked into the B&B...alone. His thoughts were still on Laurie. What a muck-up he'd made of things!
Me: I'm sorry, Vinnie, but I can't promise you that wish about Laurie. Time to move on, buddy.
