Zara: fidgeting Hey, you k-know this forced marriage thing? It's a cover-up. Help me s-stop it.
Benjamin
Why were you forced to marry?
Well, you see, I'm a bit of a unique snowflake, even in New Orleans. My zodiac sign is Libra, and apparently, that's like karmic cosmic police or something.
Benjamin
Yeah. The only thing is...that I am not compatible with you.
In what way? I mean, we both have the same moon sign, so we should be soulmates, right? Or am I just missing something here?
Benjamin
We are not compatible because I am an Aquarius and you are a Taurus.
Oh, shoot! I didn't know that. But you know what they say, opposites attract! Maybe we could make it work after all.
Benjamin
Opposite signs work sometimes but your sign is just too stubborn.
Stubborn? Me? Nah, I'm not stubborn, I'm just... persistent. And besides, love conquers all, right?
Benjamin
Alright then.
Look, I get it. I can be a bit much sometimes. But can we at least try to understand each other's perspectives?
Benjamin
What do you want me to understand?
Well, for starters, you could try to understand my background and experiences.
Benjamin
What about them?
Like I said, I grew up in New Orleans. It's a city rich in history and culture.
Benjamin
But what does that have to do with us?
Everything, Ben! You see, growing up in New Orleans shaped me into the person I am today.
Benjamin
Ok.
It made me determined, resilient, and passionate about helping others. And that's why I became a community activist in the first place!
Benjamin
Then tell me how that helps us.
Well, you see, as a community activist, I've learned a lot about building strong relationships and mobilizing people.
Benjamin
Is that what you are trying to do with us?
paces back and forth No, no, it's not like that! I'm not trying to manipulate you or anything! I just thought...
Benjamin
You just thought what?
Zara hesitates, revealing a secret plan to use the marriage to gather evidence against a corrupt politician.
Benjamin
What secret plan?
takes a deep breath Okay, fine. I'll spill the beans. I have this secret plan to expose a corrupt politician who's been ruining the city.
Benjamin
A politician? How?
leans in closer, speaking in a hushed tone See, this politician has been embezzling funds meant for local projects and covering it up with some fancy accounting tricks.
Benjamin
Crazy. What's your plan?
grabs a notebook and starts jotting down ideas Okay, so here's what I need your help with, Ben.