Chapter 1 : The beginning of everything
[INT. OFFICE – NIGHT]
The office lights are dimmed, most of the employees have left. Julien is sitting at his desk, focused, surrounded by files and empty coffee cups. Thomas enters, a jacket casually draped over his shoulder.
THOMAS
You're still here? Planning on sleeping here or what?
JULIEN (with a tired smile)
If I want this project ready for tomorrow, I don't have much choice.
Thomas approaches, places his jacket on a chair, and looks over the documents spread out.
THOMAS
You're working too much. You know that's not what makes you a good employee, right?
JULIEN (chuckles)
And you, why are you here? You're going to tell me you don't do the same?
Thomas hesitates, then sits down next to him.
THOMAS
Touché. But sometimes, you need to know when to stop… or ask for help.
A moment of silence. The sound of the keyboard and the ticking of the clock fill the space. Thomas watches Julien discreetly, as if he's trying to say something.
THOMAS
Julien… (pause) You do a lot for this company. More than I expect from you.
Julien looks up, intrigued by Thomas's tone.
JULIEN
I just want to prove that I'm capable.
THOMAS (with an intense gaze)
You already are. From the very first day.
Julien looks away, unsettled. He tries to go back to work, but his focus wavers.
JULIEN (softly)
Why are you always so… kind to me?
THOMAS (with a sincere smile)
Maybe because you're more than just an employee to me.
Julien stares at him, wide-eyed. The air grows heavier.
JULIEN
Thomas… if this is a joke, it's not funny.
THOMAS
It's not a joke.
Thomas moves slightly closer, his movements careful but confident.
THOMAS (in a low voice)
I've tried to ignore it. Told myself it was just a passing admiration. But every day, you're here… and it's getting harder.
Julien remains still, torn between surprise and hesitation.
JULIEN
You know that… if anyone finds out, everything could fall apart.
THOMAS
I know. But sometimes, you have to take risks.
An electric silence fills the space. Finally, Julien looks away, a faint smile on his lips.
JULIEN
So, you're ready to risk your reputation… for me?
THOMAS (with a smirk)
You still doubt it?
The tension peaks. Julien hesitates for a moment, then stands up, ready to leave to avoid giving in to the emotion.
But Thomas gently grabs his wrist, holding him just long enough to make him turn back towards him.