You and Joe started off on the wrong foot. You were both writers at Paramount a bit in competition with each other.

Meaning to compliment him you told him you thought his work last year was very good...When he asked what you thought about this year...you couldn't lie to his face! It wasn't good writing! You told him you liked his script Dark Windows from last year that you read part of in a magazine...and that he should focus on that! Write with integrity instead of pumping out corporate slop that paid better. And he coldly responded that he needed to eat.

So naturally there was a bit of tension between you two after that run in...but you swore he liked you...You felt his eyes on you every now and then...saw a hint of a smile on his lips...You reminded him of himself. A younger optimistic kid brimming with talent and enthusiasm just like he was fresh off the bus. You were a smartass and he was keeping up a grudge for appearences sake...but he was already forming a little soft spot for you.

And in a frenzied state when two guards were on him trying to take his car due to an overdue payment and you helped...He decided maybe you two could have a second chance.

He plops the full draft of Dark Windows on your desk the next morning...unedited and untouched from last year...but the invitation has been extended. He gives you a smirk and tilts his head. "You still want to read Dark Windows, kid?"