---
[INT. THOMAS'S OFFICE – DAY]
Thomas is on the phone with a board member, visibly angry. Julien sits across from him, arms crossed, staring blankly.
THOMAS
I understand your concerns, but this is a personal matter and has nothing to do with my work. I won't allow Julien to be targeted because of this.
Thomas hangs up, running a nervous hand through his hair.
JULIEN
What did they say?
THOMAS (sighing)
Some are calling for an internal investigation. Others suggest I step back "to preserve the company's image."
JULIEN (stunned)
All this… because of us?
Thomas moves closer, placing a hand on his shoulder.
THOMAS
This isn't your fault, Julien. I knew the risks, and I accepted them.
JULIEN
But if it destroys everything you've built…
Thomas clenches his jaw, searching for the right words.
THOMAS
The only thing that matters to me is that you're okay. If you want us to stop, to protect yourself, I'll understand.
Julien stands abruptly, determination flashing in his eyes.
JULIEN
Stop? No. If we back down now, it means they've won.
A moment of silence passes between them. Touched by Julien's conviction, Thomas smiles faintly.
---
[INT. PRESS ROOM – NEXT DAY]
Thomas decides to take control of the situation by holding a press conference. The journalists are eager, cameras flashing. Thomas speaks to the crowd with calm and confidence.
THOMAS
A recent photo has sparked speculation about my personal life. Let me be clear: yes, Julien and I are in a relationship. It grew from mutual respect and genuine feelings.
A murmur spreads through the room. Julien, standing in a corner, watches nervously.
THOMAS
I understand that some may find this inappropriate. But this relationship has never interfered with my professional decisions. My team and this company remain my top priorities.
The journalists bombard Thomas with questions. One of them asks:
JOURNALIST
Don't you think this could be seen as an abuse of power?
Thomas responds calmly.
THOMAS
Julien is a competent employee whose results speak for themselves. Focusing on this "relationship" distracts from what truly matters: his work and mine.
---
[INT. JULIEN'S APARTMENT – EVENING]
After the press conference, Thomas joins Julien, who is waiting nervously.
JULIEN
You took quite a risk today.
THOMAS (with a tired smile)
I'd rather do that than hide you or watch you leave.
Julien nods, moved.
JULIEN
So, what do we do now?
THOMAS
We keep moving forward. Together.
They share a knowing look. Julien takes Thomas's hand, solidifying their determination to face the challenges ahead.
---
The fallout is difficult: some colleagues distance themselves, but others show their support. Julien, after proving his worth on a major project, earns a well-deserved promotion, silencing the critics.
As for Thomas, he gains the respect of the board for his transparency and crisis management. Their relationship, far from weakening them, becomes a source of strength, symbolizing the importance of authenticity and mutual respect....