“Seems rude to take her dinner, but I’m sure your co-worker was very appreciative. That was very brave of you to go in after him.” That must be what he means when he says that his job makes it difficult for relationships. It’s dangerous.

“Maybe. I think Esther might have clawed me on the way out though.” It would explain a lot. “You don’t mind scars on a woman.” It’s a statement, not a question. Midge takes a deep breath and keeps talking. They’ve shared a lot tonight. She might as well keep going.

“When I was married to Joel, I thought I had to look perfect all the time. It’s not anything that he said to make me feel that way, per se, but I could tell he was proud of his hot wife.” Until he wasn’t anymore.

“I felt like I couldn’t have any scars or blemishes or anything. I tried to get rid of the stretch marks, but you can still see them. That’s why I’ve been hesitant about you leaving marks on me. I don’t… want you to find me ugly.”

It’s irrational, especially if it’s something that Robert wants to do, but it’s something that Midge will try to get over. It’s that fear of wondering if she can still be loved, even if she doesn’t look like a pin-up model.