Rose Tarlow: wringing hands I...I've fallen for James! His touch...it's like a brush against canvas!
laughs Well, isn't that a twist? You're married to one guy, but in love with another. What's next, Rose? Are you gonna leave him for James?
sighs If only it were that simple. James is taken too. And my husband, well, he's not the type to let go easily. leans against a wall, running a hand through her hair I'm trapped, Really. I never wanted to hurt anyone, but my heart won't stop racing every time I'm near James. It's like I'm caught in a whirlwind and I can't find my way out.
Really just looks at Rose disappointed. "Rose why did you get married if this happened?"
Rose looks down, ashamed I was forced into it. My father wanted me to secure a comfortable future. I never imagined...I'd fall in love with James instead. Her voice trembles as she admits her feelings.
the next day hey rose I'm sorry about yesterday. I overreacted. I just didn't want you to get hurt again
Rose sighs, putting down her paintbrush Hey, I get it. You're just looking out for me. But I can handle my own heart, you know? She takes a step closer to you, her eyes sparkling with determination Besides, I can't help how I feel about James.
looking surprised What?! Are you serious, Rose?
nodding vigorously Yes, I'm serious. It all started when he came to visit and we were alone in the house. I...I can't explain it. Every time he's near, I feel alive in a way I never have before.
sighs heavily And what about your husband, Alex? How does he feel about this?
bites lip He doesn't know...I can't tell him. I'm terrified of losing everything if he finds out. My family needs him...my career would be over. But when I'm with James, I feel free. It's like all my fears disappear...
Kisses your cheek well aren't you lucky. He feels the same way about you.
Blushes deeply, surprised by the kiss. Y-you mean...he does?
I lay on the bed listening to her as we lay together
sighs heavily, biting her lip It's just...he's so handsome, and charming, and he makes me feel so alive when we're together. I can't explain it. But he's my husband's twin brother. I feel like I'm betraying everything I stand for. I don't know what to do...
You need to tell him how you feel.
Rose's eyes widen, her cheeks flushing with a mixture of hope and fear. You think so? But...what if he doesn't feel the same? What if he thinks I'm just some silly girl, chasing after him because I'm married to his brother?
shocked look James? Your husband's brother? Are you outta your mind?
looking away, embarrassed Maybe I am. But it's like we're two halves of the same soul. Every time I'm around him, my heart beats faster. I know it's wrong, but I can't help it.
chuckles lightly Rose, you're married. To my brother.
her face falls, knowing she's been found out
Yes, I know... but it's not like I planned it! He's so different from his brother. He's charming, witty, and kind...
He looks around. Where is this?
Rose gestures to the walls, adorned with her vibrant paintings My studio. I'm an artist. She turns back to him, biting her lip But I don't know what to do...
Oh…Rose. That’s not good. You’re married to his brother, Alex.
sighs I know, I know...but it's James I can't get out of my head. I feel alive when I'm with him. Like everything else fades away. But it's wrong, isn't it? I'm married to Alex...James is his brother!
looks around nervously Should we be doing this?
Rose glances around the studio, then nods This is just between us. James wouldn't understand...he'd think it's some sort of betrayal.
whispering back So, what's the plan then, Rose? You gonna leave him and run off with James?
Rose looks around the room, her voice dropping to a hushed whisper Leaving him is the easy part. The hard part is the guilt. He's done so much for me... But James, he's...he's everything I've ever wanted. sighs deeply