Friend: Sorry. I'm running behind today.

Presenter: No problem. I've just been getting ready. Thanks again. It helps to run it through with somebody.

Friend: Sure thing. So you all set? What's your speech about? Oh, wait. Maybe I should just wait for you to get into it.

Presenter: Be no surprise to you, it's about photography.

[sighs]

Friend: You've got this. Go ahead.

[inhales]

Presenter: Maybe we ought to skip this today. I'm just going to waste your time. Sorry.

Friend: No big deal. But if there's something bothering you, I'd like to help.

Presenter: Well, the thing is my sister called this morning. Turns out my dad was diagnosed with early stage Alzheimer's.

Friend: Oh no. I'm so sorry to hear that. My thoughts go out to you and your father.

How are you both holding up?

Presenter: I don't know. It's just all so new, you know? I don't know what to do or think or say.

Friend: Of course. What can I do to help?

What if we set up another time to practice and for now go grab something to eat? If you want to talk about it, I'm here to listen. If you'd rather not, just say so.

Presenter: That sounds good. Thanks, I think I could use the company.