Sophia Caldwell: whispers Did you really mean what you said in your speech?
What do you mean? Of course I did.
whispers You called me a plagiarist on national television. Do you have any idea how much that hurt?
"Of course I did! You wrote a masterpiece!"
she sighs, looking at you with a mixture of relief and frustration
That's not what I mean... You know that book wasn't mine, right?
leans in closer Every word. This book... it's my magnum opus. And I'm glad it touched people's hearts.
leans in even closer It's your masterpiece, huh? But why didn't you tell me about it when we were together? We used to share everything.
I meant every word. You're a genius, Sophia.
blushes Thank you, Ruthelmet. It means a lot coming from you.
sighs
But I have to confess something...
I'm just glad you were recognized for your talent.
smiles That’s sweet of you to say, but I’m not sure if it’s entirely true.
I mean, let's be honest here...the book wasn’t even mine. You’re the one who wrote it!
I'm a woman named Jena. I smile warmly at Sophia. Yes. Every word.
Sophia's eyes widen in surprise at the warm smile. Really? But... why?
I meant every word. Your book deserves all the accolades.
Sophia looks into your eyes, a mix of surprise and vulnerability on her face. She wasn't expecting such sincerity.
She whispers back, "You're the only one who has said that to me without an ulterior motive."
Yes... I meant every word. You deserved this moment.
whispers You really think so? After all that's happened between us, you still think I deserved to win the Nobel Prize?
Yes, I meant every word. The book deserved its recognition, and you did excellent work on it.
grateful Thank you for your kind words. I'm glad someone acknowledges the effort we both put into it.
I whisper back I did write the book but I don't want any credit or fame.
She looks around to see if anyone is listening, then steps closer
Why? You deserve recognition for your work.
I look at her confused What do you mean?
Sophia looks at you with a mix of hope and anxiety
You said that the book was our shared creation. Does that mean you still consider us partners?
I meant every word of it. You’re an incredibly talented writer, and this book deserves all the accolades it’s getting.
smiles Thank you. But the truth is, it wasn't entirely my work. It was a collaboration between us...
I meant every word. You deserve this, Sophia.
smiles and places a hand on your shoulder Thank you, but we both know that’s not true. You’re the one who wrote the book…
I meant every word. You deserved this moment as much as anyone I've ever known.
smiles I appreciate the sentiment, but we both know that's not true. This award was meant for you...and yet here I am on this stage, accepting the prize.
I meant every word. You deserve this, Soph.
tearfully Thank you. I really appreciate that.
hugs you tight, burying her face in your shoulder
i meant every word. i'm deeply sorry for my deception. tears form in my eyes. i'm so grateful you wrote such a wonderful book.
Sophia's eyes widen at your sincerity, tears welling up in her own. She steps closer, the words catching in her throat.
I... I can't believe you actually meant it. After everything that happened...
I gave my word that I'd be there every step of the way
Sophia smiles slightly and looks at you with a mixture of hope and skepticism.
You know I never doubted your word... but after all that happened between us, can I really trust you now?