[Scene: Studio Hallway – After the Panel]
The panel wrapped with polite applause, lights dimming to a softer glow. Crew members began unplugging cables, their chatter filling the background.
Alvira gathered her notes with steady hands, though inside, her pulse was still echoing from the moments on stage.
Ilham's POV
I should've walked straight out with my manager. But my steps slowed, drawn toward her as if the rest of the hallway didn't exist.
The world had been loud under the studio lights — now it felt quieter, sharper.
"Your points about representation… they were powerful," I said, meaning it.
She glanced up, the corners of her lips curving in the faintest smile. "I only spoke what I believe."
It wasn't just her words. It was the calm conviction in her tone — like she didn't need to compete with the noise around her.
[Scene: Outside the Building – Winter Air]
A cold breeze brushed against her cheeks as she stepped outside. The sun had shifted lower, painting Seoul in gold.
Alvira's POV
I thought I would be relieved to leave, to escape the press of cameras and questions.
But as I walked toward the curb to call a taxi, I felt an odd heaviness — like part of me was still inside, in that green room, meeting his eyes for the first time.
Behind me, I heard his voice again.
"Alvira."
I froze, turning slowly.
He'd come outside without his coat buttoned, breath curling in the winter air.
[Scene: The Conversation by the Curb]
Ilham: "I… wanted to thank you again. Not just for today, but… for how you carried yourself."
Alvira: "It's nothing extraordinary. It's simply… who I am."
Isa: "Exactly."
His gaze held hers a beat longer than necessary. The noise of the street seemed to fade — just two people, speaking like the rest of the city didn't matter.
[Scene: Their Unspoken Thoughts]
Ilham's POV
I've met thousands of people, smiled at cameras, shaken countless hands. But no one had ever made me feel like I should choose my words more carefully — not out of fear, but out of respect.
Alvira's POV
This was dangerous ground. My heart wasn't supposed to stumble like this.
Ya Allah, if this is a test, grant me the strength to pass it.
[Scene: The Farewell]
A black van pulled up for him, her taxi just behind.
"Safe travels," she said softly.
"You too," he replied, his voice low, almost reluctant.
And then — just before the door closed — he added, "Maybe we'll meet again."
The door shut. The van pulled away.
She didn't move until the exhaust had faded into the winter air.
[Closing Monologue – Both POVs]
Ilham: Her name still echoes in my mind. And I'm not sure I want it to stop.
Alvira: If this is the start of something, I pray it leads me closer to You, not further away.
Two vehicles drove in different directions, but neither of their hearts stayed behind.
To be continued....