When the heart overrides the rules [BL]

After the press conference and the tensions at the office, Julien is offered a position at a competing company. The job is prestigious, with significant financial benefits, but it is clear that the offer is also a way for the company to take advantage of the scandal surrounding Thomas. Julien finds himself facing a dilemma: remain loyal or seize the opportunity.

[INT. JULIEN'S APARTMENT – EVENING]

Julien and Thomas are having dinner together. The atmosphere is more relaxed than before, but Julien seems distracted. Thomas, ever perceptive, notices immediately.

THOMAS

You're distracted tonight. Is everything okay?

Julien hesitates, then sets down his fork.

JULIEN

I got a job offer. A great opportunity.

Thomas looks up, surprised.

THOMAS

That's good. What kind of job?

JULIEN

Project Manager at NovaCorp. A big step up… and double the salary.

Thomas freezes, immediately understanding the implications.

THOMAS

NovaCorp? Our direct competitors?

JULIEN (calmly)

Yes.

A tense silence fills the room.

THOMAS

Are you considering it?

JULIEN (hesitant)

I don't know. It would be foolish not to.

THOMAS

Of course. But you know why they chose you, don't you?

Julien lowers his eyes.

JULIEN

Because I'm good at my job.

THOMAS

That's part of it. But not all. They want to pull you away from your work here… and maybe unsettle me further.

Julien frowns, feeling trapped between ambition and loyalty.

JULIEN

It's unfair, Thomas. Why do I always have to choose between you and my career?

Thomas looks hurt but remains composed.

THOMAS

I'm not asking you to choose. I just want you to make this decision for the right reasons.

Julien abruptly stands, clearly troubled.

JULIEN

I'll think about it.

He leaves the room, leaving Thomas alone at the table.

[INT. NOVACORP OFFICE – NEXT DAY]

Julien meets with a NovaCorp recruiter, Ms. Lemoine, a cold but persuasive woman.

LEMOINE

Your name is being mentioned a lot lately, Julien. We believe you would be a valuable addition to our team.

JULIEN

It's flattering. But why me, specifically?

LEMOINE

Your talent speaks for itself. And… let's just say we know how to recognize opportunities.

The implication is clear. Julien shifts uncomfortably.

LEMOINE

We're offering you a chance to shine without being overshadowed by… certain relationships.

[INT. JULIEN'S APARTMENT – EVENING]

Julien comes home late and finds Thomas sitting on the couch, visibly worried.

THOMAS

How was the meeting?

JULIEN (sighing)

They know exactly what they're doing.

THOMAS

And you? What do you want?

Julien sits down beside him.

JULIEN

I want to succeed, Thomas. But not by selling our story or betraying what we've built.

Thomas, relieved, takes his hand.

THOMAS

Then stay. Not for me. For yourself.

JULIEN (smiling faintly)

I'll stay. But on one condition: we need to be honest. With ourselves and with everyone else.

[INT. MEETING ROOM – A FEW WEEKS LATER]

Thomas officially announces that he is delegating some of his responsibilities to avoid any conflict of interest with Julien. This allows Julien to climb the ranks based on his own merits.

THOMAS (to the team)

We are all here to serve the company. Transparency is our strength, and I trust each of you to do what's right.

Julien earns the respect of his colleagues through an innovative project, proving he deserves his position. Meanwhile, Thomas strengthens his leadership while protecting their relationship. Together, they learn that balancing love and career is a constant challenge, but with honesty and mutual support, anything is possible....