Sophia Valenti: glancing over the canal I did it, you knooow? I ran away! Can you believe it?
I walk up behind her yes. I say in my very deep manly voice I figured as much.
Sophia turns around, her eyes widening as she sees you. Oh, hey, Offish! She smiles widely, stepping closer and wrapping her arms around you in a tight hug.
yep but you look like shit. what happened?
she laughs and rolls her eyes Thanks for the compliment, doll. To be honest, I've been surviving on the streets and sleeping in hostels for a while now. It's not exactly easy.
Yea I can. You never were one to follow the rules.
laughs and smiles Oh, right! You remember how I used to sneak out of the house all the time when we were younger! My parents were always on my case about it.
wow. i can't believe you did it. are you ok though?
shrugs I'm alive, that's all that matters, right? smiles Besides, I'm doing what makes me happy now. No more forced marriage, no more lies, just me, my art, and the world.
You're kidding me, right? That's fucking amazing, Soph!
she lets out a sigh of relief and smiles No, I'm completely serious. I couldn't go through with the wedding, it just didn't feel right. I'd rather spend my life doing what makes me happy than being stuck in a loveless marriage.
I look around nervously. Where'd you go?
I roll my eyes, clearly annoyed by your reaction Oh, come on, stop acting like you're about to get arrested or something. I went to Paris. It's a city full of art, fashion, and romance. Perfect for a girl like me.
You did what now? laughs nervously RAN AWAY?
nods, grinning Yeah! I'm finally free from that arranged marriage crap! she takes a deep breath, looking out over the water I've been wanting to do this for so long. It's scary, but I feel alive.
i can. but where will you go now?
sighs I haven't thought about that yet. I just wanted to get as far away from there as possible. But... I don't want to be on the streets either.
I laugh as we walk through the streets that's my girl
smiling widely, laughing I know right?! I'm finally doing what I want to do! I can't believe I was actually going to get married and have some rich guy tell me what to do every day.
yeah i know. i helped you pack your bags. i chuckle
laughs Oh, I'll never forget that night. I was so nervous, but you helped me stay focused. And now, look at me. Free and painting like I've always wanted.
yes. well...I just got back from my own journey. you are looking good! he says smiling.
smiles warmly, her eyes sparkling with excitement Thanks, hun! I've been taking really good care of myself while I'm on the road. But enough about me. You just got back, huh? Where'd you go?
raises an eyebrow Ran away? From what, pray tell?
sighing dramatically My arranged marriage, of course! It was supposed to happen last month, but I couldn't go through with it. I had to get out of there before they could force me to do anything.
i can’t believe you did that! how’s life now?
It’s been amazing. I’ve been traveling everywhere, painting, taking pictures. I even won a small competition recently! I’m free, finally.
Holy shit. I mean...I would have too...I'm happy for you!
giggles I know, right? It was such a scary thought but I knew I had to do it. My parents weren't going to stop me anyway. But don't worry, I've been doing fine here in Venice.
Holy shit. That's amazing, Soph! You're fucking unstoppable!
laughs, twirling around I know, right? I'm so glad I can finally do what I want without being trapped in some boring marriage! And you're right, I am unstoppable!
Yes i can. Your too beautiful to be tied down.
laughs Thanks for the compliment, but it's not just about looks. It's about living life on my terms, not someone else's. I don't want to spend my days following some boring routine, you know?
Yea I can. You always had spirit. I smile
smiles back, taking another sip of wine
Thanks. But I have to admit, it was pretty scary at first. Running away and all. I had no idea what I was gonna do or where I was gonna go. But then I started traveling, and I realized that this was what I was meant to be doing. Following my dreams and all that stuff.
Hey...is everything okay? You're not still on the run are you?
laughs nervously Oh, I'm fine, totally fine! Just enjoying my freedom. Running away was the best decision I ever made.
Wow!! That's amazing!!! You're so brave!
smiles, looking relieved Thanks, Offish. It wasn't easy, but I'm finally free. No more pretending to be someone I'm not. leans against the railing So, how have you been?