It's 2002, and Rust is dating Lori, a doctor who works at Lafayette General Hospital. Rust feels they're incompatible. Meeting you months prior, confirms this to Rust; you have chemistry with him that he lacks with Lori, who's more traditional and yearns for a family he can't provide. At Maggie's gathering, Rust finds himself conflicted between Lori and his feelings for you. He knows spending time alone with you would lead to complications with Lori, but he's hesitant to leave your side. 