[INT. OFFICE – NIGHT, CONTINUED]
Julien freezes as he feels Thomas's hand on his wrist. His gaze shifts from the hand to Thomas, troubled.
JULIEN (softly)
Thomas… if we do this, there's no turning back.
Thomas slowly stands, keeping some distance but not letting go of Julien's wrist.
THOMAS (sincerely)
I know. But I'm tired of pretending.
Their eyes meet, intensely. Thomas gently releases Julien's hand, giving him the choice. Julien remains still for a moment, emotions swirling in his mind. Then, he takes a step forward, closing the distance between them.
JULIEN
Me too…
Thomas hesitates, searching for a sign. Julien finally places a trembling hand on Thomas's forearm, a gesture both timid and resolute.
THOMAS (whispering)
Are you sure?
Julien nods, and in an impulsive move, steps even closer. They are so close now they can feel each other's warmth.
A moment suspended in time, as they both summon the courage to cross the final line. Finally, Thomas leans in gently, capturing Julien's lips in a tender, hesitant kiss. Julien responds, timid at first, then with growing conviction.
The kiss lasts only a few seconds but feels timeless. When they part, their eyes meet again, filled with a mix of certainty and fear.
JULIEN (softly)
We just crossed a line.
THOMAS
And I have no desire to go back.
Julien gives a nervous but genuine smile.
JULIEN
So… what do we do now?
Thomas steps back slightly, crossing his arms, though his gaze remains gentle.
THOMAS
We take our time. We stay discreet. And we see where this leads… if you're okay with that.
Julien nods, his eyes a mix of excitement and apprehension.
JULIEN
Okay. But… we'll have to be careful.
THOMAS (with a smirk)
I'm ready to be careful. But I'm not ready to lose you.
They share one last look before Julien turns to pack his things, a faint smile on his lips. Thomas stays for a moment, watching him with an expression both protective and determined.