Strictly Professional

SCENE BEGINS with Ashley (Bella Rolland), an executive assistant, diligently typing away on her laptop at her workstation. She appears very proficient and engrossed in her tasks. David (Mike Mancini), her superior, comes into the scene. He carries himself with an air of authority and self-assuredness, unmistakably a man wielding influence. Ashley snaps to attention with a courteous grin. Her physical demeanor suggests she harbors hidden affections for him, yet she refrains from expressing them. As Ashley briefs David on some corporate matters, there's an undercurrent of erotic tension between them. David initiates a flirtatious advance, leaning in to plant a kiss on her. Ashley momentarily surrenders to the passion but withdraws before their lips meet, taken aback. David attempts to persuade her into an intimate encounter, drawing parallels between old and new ways of life and work. Ashley feels the allure but is apprehensive, not wishing to instigate a marital split between David and his spouse, Megan. David assures her that he doesn't intend to abandon his wife; he's merely seeking a little excitement. Despite the allure, Ashley ultimately rebuffs his overtures, adamant that she cannot bear the thought of causing Megan pain. David doesn't seem particularly disheartened, assuring Ashley that should she ever reconsider, the opportunity will always be available. David then excuses himself, retreating into his private office. Once David departs, Ashley remains taken aback but torn. She continually shoots contemplative glances towards his office, as if pondering whether she should follow him. She attempts to redirect her attention back to her duties, but her gaze strays back to his office yet again. TITLE PLATE Days later, Ashley finds herself preoccupied with thoughts of being with David, yet guilt-ridden over the potential harm to Megan. She decides to investigate Megan's character to help determine her next move. Later that same day, Ashley tails Megan to her place of work. Under the suspicion that Megan might be deceitful, Ashley infiltrates the class as a student. Ashley attempts to gather incriminating evidence against Megan, but everything points towards Megan being a good person. Megan steps out for a coffee break before her lecture, and Ashley shadows her. Ashley strives to remain inconspicuous as she surveils Megan at the café. She's now desperate to find ANYTHING negative about Megan. A patron in line ahead of Megan drops their wallet. Megan retrieves the fallen wallet. She removes cash from it before handing it back to the oblivious customer. Ashley breaks into an excited grin. This is PRECISELY the validation she's been seeking to escalate her relationship with David. Their connection is about to transcend far beyond being exclusively work-related...