Tell Me Liesis the scripted version of it, Van Patten tells Bustle of the Bravo mainstay.
Theyre like Stassi Schroeder and Jax Taylor in early seasons, she says.
Except unlike Schroeder and Taylor, Lucy and Stephen are unable to quit each other.
Throughout the season, in the shows present-day scenes,age doesnt free Lucy from this prison.
Though, on second thought, shes not sure even prison could keep Lucy away.
Shes going to become like a Ted Bundy wife.
The emotion that drives this show is obsession.
In the first season, Lucys obsession with Stephen gave way to desperation.
But this year, it seems her obsession is evolving into rage.
Lucy is in denial about still being obsessed.
Her actions completely go against what shes telling herself.
I think that [contradiction] could make somebody feel confused and crazy.
I think shes genuinely convinced herself shes not going to fall into it again.
Its this vicious cycle that hasnt been broken, even in the present day.
How did you tap into Lucys lingering baggage?
I dont think we see the long-term effects of toxic relationships.
Thats what I really liked about the second season.
It shows how those people follow you for as long as you let them.
[this year,] Lucy meets this new guy, Leo, and really wants it to work.
I think she genuinely felt this is my chance out of it;this is my chance for freedom.
But she was subconsciously projecting her trauma from Stephen onto him without realizing it.
Hurt people hurt people.
I dont think she believes she deserves a loving, open, communicative relationship because shes never had that.
She doesnt have that with her mom; shes been betrayed by her best friend.
My favorite Shakespeare quote is Suspicion always haunts the guilty mind.
What do you think it would actually take for Lucy to walk away from Stephen?
Theyre probably melded together at this point.
I think shes seeking reassurance in that.
Its a very heavy dynamic to share with any other actor, let alone your boyfriend.
Whats been the greatest gift of working with Jackson, and whats the most difficult part of it?
The biggest gift is the safety and comfort we have with each other.
What would you say to those who romanticize Stephen?
I mean, I want him too.
So back off, kindly!
This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.
