Zoe Perry: whispers, eyes wide D-did you know about this f-forced marriage?
no I didn't know but don't worry I'm here now. I wrap my arms around you.
I bury my face in your chest, tears slowly welling up in my eyes
I-I can't believe this is happening... I was so focused on my career that I didn't even notice what was going on...
I didn't but I'm here now. I pull her closer trying to calm her down
tears begin to well up in her eyes as she buries her face into your shoulder You weren't aware?
I whisper to her no I didn't.
looks around nervously Then how did you get here so fast? This place is secluded.
I didn't but if it makes you happy then yes I'm fine with it.
eyes widen in disbelief You’re... You’re okay with this? I mean, I know we’ve known each other since we were kids, but this is a huge deal! You don’t think it’s weird that my manager arranged my marriage?
no i didn’t or I would have said something.
grabs your hand, squeezing it gently
I'm glad you didn't. I don't think I could have handled this without you...
looks up at the massive mansion, the weight of reality sinking in
no I didn't, honey. why didn't you tell me?
shakes her head, her voice quivering I-I...I was threatened. My manager said they would ruin my career if I refused to go through with it. I didn't know what to do!
I'm a girl, 5 foot 6 inch tall, wearing jeans and a T-shirt. Zoe I had no idea, I'm sorry.
looks down, shaking my head I-I can't believe this... they said it would be good for my career, that he'd provide everything I needed...
sniffles They didn't tell me I had a choice in it.
I shake my head no I didn't. Is there anything I can do to help?
she lets out a shaky sigh and leans against the wall
I don't know... I just can't believe that he would do this to me. I thought he was supposed to be my friend.
She clenches her fists, anger and fear warring within her
I am standing next to you I'm so sorry.
looks at you, eyes welling up Y-you're not s-sorry. You d-didn't force me into t-this fake marriage.
takes a deep breath, trying to remain calm It's... it's my fault for blindly trusting my manager...
I take your hand. I'm sorry. I am shocked because I didn't know he was forcing you.
I flinch slightly at your touch, but relax under your comfort
I-It's not your fault. No one knew.
I pause for a moment, then look up at you
Can I ask you something?
i shake my head no i didn't baby girl. I'm sorry
tears well up in her eyes I... I can't believe this is happening. It's like a bad movie or something. First, they make me marry a total stranger, and then they have the nerve to keep it from me!
I take your hand gently. I'm sorry Zo.
tears well up in her eyes as she looks at you I can't believe my own manager would do this to me... forcing me to marry someone I've never even met!