The Beginning:
Location – Bella's Office, top floor of "BPB" Company
Paris – 11:47 PM
The city sleeps to the rhythm of the soft moonlight, except for the skyscraper bearing the name "BPB", where the light still shines on its top floor, defying the sleepiness of Paris.
Inside, Bella sits on her throne made of Italian leather behind a wide glass desk. One leg crossed over the other.
She wore a shirt that resembled no one but herself: "Sheer Net Collar", but with her own creativity.
The long sleeves, made of pale yellow transparent fabric, wrapped around her arms like wings of light,
and the neckline and shoulders of the same fabric, as if revealing the strength of her soft neck without exposing it.
As for the middle part —which covered her chest and torso— it was in a shiny golden yellow color, dazzling to the eyes.
A straight line of black buttons ran down the shirt from the neck to the navel, like a diamond sword splitting light.
The pants? An exceptional piece.
High-waisted Sailor Pants, in the color of the sun at sunset,
adorned with black plumeria flower patterns, as if nature decided to bow upon royal fabric.
Her legs crossed with calculated finesse, and the heels of her open toe pumps revealed the tips of her nails painted in a refined ivory shade.
The golden shoes looked as if the sun had borrowed their shape and once walked in them.
Around her neck... a golden High Neck Collar necklace, not just an accessory but an unspoken royal declaration.
Golden Hoop earrings swayed gently from her ears, while her black watch with a white face, surrounded by real diamonds,
rested above the other.
As for her hair, it was tied in a loose half-updo, with lower strands dyed golden yellow. Her face was almost makeup-free, except for a slight shine on her lips.
Her eyes were tired, but her gaze remained sharp. She held a golden pen, flipping through the reports with deliberate calm.
Bella (whispering as she signs a paper):
"Fifty million dollars… for poor children with no family?" (then leans back slightly, thinking)
"Hmm… the last sentence sounds a bit harsh."
She suddenly stops, looking at the paper where she had written the orphanage visit appointment.
Bella (with a tone of boredom):
"Emily is sick? Wonderful… who will protect me now from children who speak the truth mercilessly?"
She reaches for her phone, scrolling quickly through her contacts.
She pauses at the name: "Lucien (Intern)"
Raises her eyebrow and smiles faintly, sarcastically.
Bella (sarcastically, raising her eyebrow):
"If you're a good teacher… you have to throw your student into trouble, so he learns how to survive on his own… like a math problem."
(Thinks)
"Damn math."
She presses the call button.
•••
Location: Lucien's Home – Same Time
Lucien is lying on the couch, wearing cotton pajamas. He's reading a book about fashion history, and his face is covered with a shiny green face mask that his little sister "Lina" bought for him.
The phone rings. He looks at the screen…
"Directrice Bella Leclaire"
He freezes.
Lucien (arching his back in panic):
"It's almost midnight! Did I send the wrong email?! Did I place a comma in the wrong spot?!"
He answers quickly.
Lucien (in a tense, formal tone):
"Madame Leclaire! At your service!"
Bella (her eyes open wide, her voice suddenly gleaming with mischievous childishness):
"Oh, Lucien, my favorite child."
Lucien (nervously and suspiciously):
"Madame Leclaire, is… is everything alright? Did I do something wrong?"
Bella (same innocent tone as she gazes at the ceiling):
"I wish for the day to come when I can get rid of everyone."
Lucien (frozen, whispering hoarsely):
"...What?"
Bella (with a playful royal tone as she crosses her legs again):
"Don't worry, Lucien. I haven't fired you… yet. Just get ready, I'll need you tomorrow for a secret humanitarian mission."
Lucien:
"A-A secret… mission?!"
Bella:
"Yes, so don't wear anything shiny. We're going to an orphanage."
Lucien (jerks up with a trembling voice):
"A-An orphanage?! Am I going to meet… children?!"
Bella (calmly sarcastic):
"Yes. And they might ask you to play the role of the failed hero… I mean, superhero. Start practicing standing on one leg now."
She hangs up.
Lucien stares at the phone for a long time, then suddenly stands up.
Lucien (whispering in shock):
"I'm going with Bella Leclaire to… an orphanage? This… this is a dream! A dream that will become real."
The scene fades to the light of the Eiffel Tower through his window.
Location – A taxi in the suburbs of Paris, 3:12 PM
In the background, small houses and spring balcony gardens pass by like hanging paintings. Lucien sits in the back seat of the taxi, staring out the window absentmindedly. The sun sneaks through the glass and lights up his cheek, revealing the clarity of his skin and the shine of his blond hair, which looked like it reflected the light.
He was wearing a light blue T-shirt, a loose gray leather jacket over it, and gray pants of the same shade, with gray athletic shoes from the brand "BPB." On his wrist, a watch and two bracelets of the same brand, and a boyish light blue cap covering his hair strands. His appearance was simple, comfortable, but with a touch of modern glow—unintentionally.
Lucien (thinking in a low voice, smiling):
"I didn't know going out with my boss would feel like a school trip… a weird kind."
The driver reaches the address and stops in front of an old but clean building, surrounded by tall trees and windows covered with simple white curtains. On the iron sign at the gate, Lucien reads:
"Maison Espoir"
(House of Hope)
Lucien (in a low voice):
"House of Hope… sounds like the name of a black-and-white movie."
He gets out of the car, adjusts his cap, and heads toward the gate with cautious steps, as if his feet were afraid of the unfamiliar ground.
The place becomes livelier with the sound of birds and gentle breezes, until Bella Leclaire appears, standing beside a fifty-something elegant-looking lady whose features carry the kind weariness of someone used to working with children.
Bella was in full elegance: a white shirt under a gray vest, and over them a sleek gray blazer. A black tie with blue and yellow stripes, gray work pants, black leather shoes, a metal watch, and small earrings, along with three spaced-out rings. Her black hair flowed elegantly over her shoulders and back, and her lips shimmered with a light touch of clear gloss.
Lucien (looking at her in awe, mumbling):
"She works at midnight… and still looks like a runway model in her twenties."
Bella turns toward him, notices him from afar, and smiles a small, sly smile without speaking—just raising her eyebrow as if to say "You're one minute late."
Lucien (jogs slightly toward her):
"Madame Leclaire, I arrived on time! Thirteen seconds early, in fact."
Bella (looking at her watch without smiling):
"And I appreciate your loyalty to the seconds."
Then she gestures toward the lady next to her.
Bella:
"This is the head of the home, Madame Laurette. Madame, this is the intern I promised you."
Laurette (kindly):
"Pleasure to meet you, charming young man… You look different from the ones who usually come."
Lucien (nervously):
"Uh… thank you… I try not to look annoying or clumsy."
Bella (quickly interrupting as she gestures with her hand):
"Don't worry, Laurette. He's not dangerous, just very anxious."
Laurette (laughing):
"That's the kind we love here."
Madame Laurette moves to the building's door, followed by Lucien and Bella with her confident steps toward the gate. Madame Laurette takes out an entry key from the pocket of her long elegant dress and inserts it into the door—the gate opens slowly.
Bella (glancing at Lucien over her shoulder):
"Brace yourself, you're about to meet merciless little monsters…"
Lucien (gulping):
"Is there health insurance for interns in the fashion department? Just… a passing question."
The scene cuts to a wide shot from behind as the three of them enter the orphanage… and the sound of their footsteps mixes with the voices of children running inside.
•••
Inside the Orphanage – 3:27 PM
The main hallway was relatively quiet, with shiny wooden floors and creamy white walls decorated with children's drawings. A faint scent of recently cooked food lingered in the air, accompanied by scattered giggles coming from one of the distant rooms.
Lucien (whispering as he looks at the drawings):
"One of these paintings is clearly a nominee for a horror exhibit."
Bella (replies in a low voice without turning):
"If you say that to one of the kids, they'll smother you with a pillow while you sleep."
Lucien:
"I think I'll write my will before the visit ends."
They continue walking behind Laurette, who was calmly explaining what the center offers:
"We currently have twenty-five children, ranging from four to fourteen years old. Most of them love drawing, and some are talented in music and dance... but they all need more than education or entertainment."
Laurette (stops and turns to them):
"They need someone to talk to them like real human beings, not charity projects."
Bella (nods quietly):
"That's why we're here."
Laurette:
"I trust you, Lady Bella... and I trust that your choice of this young man wasn't a coincidence."
Lucien (raising an eyebrow at Bella):
"Wait... are you talking about me?"
Bella (simply):
"Of course. You look like a mischievous but respectful boy... which is a magical recipe for them."
Lucien:
"And you...? What will you be? The strict director?"
Bella (with enchanting calm):
"I'm... the final boss."
Laurette opens the door to a large room filled with colors and round tables. Dozens of children move around, scream, draw, laugh. But when they see Bella... they stop, as if time froze for a second.
A little girl (shouts):
"Madam Bellaaaaaa!"
Then she rushes toward her quickly, followed by a group of other children, surrounding her like flowers around the sun.
Bella (bends down gently to hug the girl):
"Huh, who stole the chocolate cake yesterday? Be honest, Amelia."
Amelia (laughing):
"It wasn't me! It was Yasmine!"
Bella:
"Then we'll have to investigate... maybe we need a UN inquiry committee."
The children laugh out loud. Lucien stands in the back, watching her with quiet amazement.
Lucien (internal whisper):
"How can a woman running an empire be... this warm?"
A small boy walks up to him and tugs at his pant leg.
Boy:
"You're tall."
Lucien (bends down and smiles):
"And you... are very observant."
The boy stares at him then says confidently:
"I like your shoes. Same brand as mine, but mine are used."
Lucien (offers a fist bump):
"Used means they've had more adventures."
The boy laughs, bumps his fist, then runs off.
Bella glances toward him, watching his interaction without speaking... but when he looks her way, he finds her smiling.
Bella (walks toward him and whispers softly):
"Told you... they show no mercy."
Lucien (looks toward the boy who ran off):
"And that kid just stole my heart... and my shoes with a single glance."
Bella (lightly laughing):
"You're funny, you know that?"
Lucien (looks at her innocently, sincerely):
"But he literally... stole the shoes."
Bella nods, laughing at first, then suddenly freezes for a moment as she stares at his feet. Her eyes slowly drop to the floor...
...no shoes. Just gray socks.
One second... two... then she raises her eyes toward him with a calm, stunned expression.
Bella:
"...Seriously?"
An absurd pause. Then they both burst into laughter.
Their laughter blends with the noise of the children, as if time stepped back for a moment and offered them an unforgettable, pure little scene.
•••
Location: A small backyard of the orphanage "Maison Espoir"
The trees surrounded the place in silence, some scattered toys, and drifting laughter.
Bella sat on a simple wooden bench, her hair tied up haphazardly because of the heat.
Beside her sat Lucien, barefoot, with his socks wrapped around like makeshift shoes.
Lucien (watching the children play):
"Are kids always this... emotionally explosive?"
Bella (watching a little girl laugh so hard she falls to the ground):
"They're more transparent than we are. They don't know how to hide."
Lucien (looking at her with curiosity):
"And you? Do you know how to hide?"
Bella didn't respond right away. She reached out and took a biscuit from the box they brought with them.
Bella (calmly):
"I built my empire on the idea that no one should see me when I bleed."
Lucien (with childlike seriousness in a whisper):
"But… one can't build a world out of glass and pretend it's made of steel."
Bella turned to him while chewing the biscuit. She stared at him... that rare look she gave when she forgot she was the strongest, the richest, the smartest. And became simply: Bella.
Bella (softly, with a trace of sarcasm):
"You're dangerous, Lucien."
Lucien (raising his eyebrows):
"Because I said something deep?"
Bella:
"Because you said something honest (inherself) like a kid."
They both went quiet for a moment, until a small child ran up to them and held out a hand toward Bella.
The little boy:
"Are you a princess?"
Bella (smiling, leaning toward him and whispering):
"Only on Tuesdays."
The boy (sadly):
"But today is Friday."
Bella:
"Then today… I'm just someone who loves you."
The boy laughed and suddenly hugged her. She froze for a second before gently hugging him back.
Lucien watched the scene, a quiet smile resting on his face...
•••
Location: A quiet street in the suburbs of Paris, around midnight.
Event: Bella and Lucien are returning from the orphanage "Maison Espoir" in a black SUV with tinted windows reflecting the soft glow of the streetlights.
From inside the car, a faint light shines from the dashboard screen, revealing Bella's relaxed face despite the fatigue. Her eyes shimmer with calm...
Next to her sits Lucien, his hair slightly messy, holding a biscuit one of the children didn't finish.
Lucien (laughing while looking at his shoe):
"I can't believe I chased a kid in a tiny garden for ten minutes... just for this poor shoe."
Bella (with a sarcastic tone):
"A shoe from my brand… I would've charged him the full price."
Lucien (tilting his head with a smile):
"For a kid wearing a Spider-Man shirt... I think he knew its worth more than I did."
They both laughed… that kind of laughter that doesn't come from comedy, but from the warmth of the moment.
As the car moved gently through one of the narrow streets, Bella looked through the windshield and spotted a woman walking slowly on the sidewalk. The grocery bags in her hands trembled with her heavy steps. Behind her, the shadow of a man walking silently appeared.
Bella slowed down, blinked, and observed carefully. Lucien noticed her gaze, then looked too…
Lucien (in a serious whisper):
"That guy... doesn't look like a friendly tourist."
Bella didn't respond. She quietly turned toward the sidewalk and lowered the window slightly.
Bella (in a soft, cautious voice):
"Good evening, ma'am. Can we help you? We were just passing by and saw you carrying a lot."
The woman stopped. She looked at them nervously, her eyes tired but alert. She blinked for a moment, then glanced behind her as the man got closer.
The woman (hesitantly):
"I… I don't know…"
Lucien (with a reassuring smile, stepping out of the car):
"It's okay. I'll carry your bags… just get in, it's better not to be alone right now."
Bella quietly opened the back door. The woman hesitated for another moment, then looked into Bella's eyes as if seeing something she didn't see in others… then nodded and walked quickly toward them.
Lucien took the heavy bags from her and placed them in the open back door. The woman entered and sat beside Bella. Lucien climbed into the back seat, closed the door — just as the strange man passed by… he stopped for a moment, stared, then continued silently.
The woman (in a trembling voice):
"Thank you… I didn't know if he was going to hurt me or not, but... thank you for stopping."
Bella (driving again):
"The world isn't always fair… but sometimes, two people in a black car can tilt it a little."
Lucien (from the back, with a light smile):
"Especially if one of them is a professional shoe-chaser."
The woman chuckled softly, and calm returned to the car — but this time, it was a calm filled with gratitude and reassurance.
Location: A modest house in the suburbs, ground floor, small windows glowing with warm yellow light.
Time: Midnight, after moments of tension, and now… something like peace.
The car stopped in front of a humble home, beside an old almond tree.
The woman got out, paused for a second, then turned toward Bella and Lucien.
The woman (shyly, holding her coat):
"I… I know it's late, but… would you accept a cup of tea? Just as a thank you…"
Bella looked at Lucien, one eyebrow raised as if to say, "Your call."
Lucien replied with a playful look and a childlike tone:
Lucien:
"If the tea comes with biscuits… I simply can't say no."
The woman (laughing for the first time):
"Aimy might still be awake… and yes, we have biscuits."
•••
Inside:
The house is clean despite its simplicity. The furniture is old but tidy, and the couch cover has an old-fashioned floral pattern.
Bella sits on the couch, takes off her suit jacket, and places it aside, while Lucien sits on the edge of the chair, quietly playing with his fingers.
From the kitchen, the sound of boiling water can be heard, along with the murmuring of a small child turning in bed, then...
A soft voice:
"Mama...?"
A small girl with curly brown hair appears, wearing cat-patterned pajamas.
She stops at the doorway when she sees the strangers.
Émie (speaking shyly as she looks at Bella):
"Are you a princess?"
Bella smiles, nodding as if confessing a serious secret.
Bella (whispering):
"I was... but now I'm undercover."
The girl confidently walks over and sits beside Bella as if she's known her forever.
Moments later, the door to the other bedroom opens, and a small boy appears with half-closed eyes, holding his toy.
The woman (emerging from the kitchen with a tray of tea and a cup of milk):
"Ah... here we are. Leo, go back to bed, sweetheart."
Leo (looking at Lucien):
"You're the man from the dream."
Lucien (surprised):
"That's... the most terrifying and heartwarming thing I've ever heard at the same time."
Everyone laughs softly, even the mother smiles despite her exhaustion.
She serves tea to the guests and sits in front of them.
The woman:
"My name is Céline.
My husband works in another city and only comes back on weekends... and that's why, sometimes, I feel like I'm facing the world alone."
A short silence, then she looks at Bella and Lucien with sincere gratitude.
Céline:
"But tonight... you made me feel like I'm not alone."
Bella (softly, as she looks at the sleeping girl on her shoulder):
"The world isn't always kind, Céline. But we try to fill it with moments like this... so we don't forget what kindness looks like."
Lucien raises his teacup as if making a private toast.
Lucien:
"A toast to unplanned moments... and to children who steal shoes and hearts at the same time."
Céline laughs... and the house quiets, as if the night has made peace with itself.
Time: After midnight
Place: Inside Celine's house. The lighting is dim. The children are awake but drowsy, clinging to the guests.
Everyone was laughing quietly at a comment from Lucien, when the little boy rested his head on Lucien's shoulder and wrapped his arms around him like he was his last fortress in the world.
The little girl sat near Bella, examining her ring as if she were looking at a treasure, then said in a sleepy voice:
Émie:
"Will you stay with us tonight…? You two are better than Dad."
Her words fell like a stone in water… silent, but leaving many ripples.
Bella looked at the girl, then at Lucien, then at the mother, Celine, who didn't say anything… just nodded with a sad gesture, as if confessing everything without speaking.
But the silence didn't last long… suddenly…
The door bursts open.
A hard shove, the sound of creaking wood, heavy steps entering the house uninvited.
The children froze, then immediately rushed — Emi to Bella's side, and Leo into Lucien's arms.
Celine didn't seem surprised… but afraid, as if she knew this scenario well.
The Man (angry voice, choked from within):
"Celine!!! Where were you?! What do you think you're doing?! It's—"
He suddenly stopped.
He saw Bella, then Lucien.
His eyes darted like arrows, stopping at Lucien for a moment… a mocking tone came out of him instinctively.
The Man (tense and sarcastic):
"Well, well… strange man in my house after midnight? Lovely, Celine. Just lovely."
Bella sat calmly, but didn't look at him… she was watching Celine, the children, their reaction…
As for Lucien, he pulled Leo in closer, his gaze calm but examining, silent, like he was taking the room's pulse.
Then suddenly…
The Man (looking at Bella, his tone shifting to a slimy blend of arrogance and desire):
"Oh… but you… you're not from around here, are you? I'd say this neighborhood doesn't deserve a royal face like yours.
I'm 'Dean', by the way… if you need any help here, anything at all, I'm available anytime."
Bella raised an eyebrow… just one, as if filing his words under: "verbal garbage."
Then she looked at Lucien… who gave Dean a stone-like stare, then looked at Celine…
Lucien (dry tone, without raising his voice):
"I thought monsters slept at this hour."
Dean tried to laugh, but felt the pressure, especially when Bella didn't reply at all… instead, she looked at Celine, then at the children, then quietly whispered to herself:
Bella:
"The first reaction when a threat enters… the child doesn't go to his father.
The girl clings to me, and the boy ran straight to Lucien…
Celine wasn't surprised. She expected his violent entrance…
Fear is planted. Familiar. Not a moment… a pattern."
Then she looked at Dean, straight into his eyes, as if reading his secret file.
The smile he was trying to maintain melted away.
Her words were quiet, but split the room in half:
Bella:
"You're the real guest, aren't you? In this house… even your wife doesn't live with you anymore.
And your children… only know you as a loud voice or a shadow on the wall."
The little girl clutched Bella's hand tighter, while the boy took a deep breath, as if he'd found new safety.
Dean (trying to raise his voice):
"What business is this of yours…? Who are you two anyway?!"
Lucien (responding with lethal calm):
"We're the people you pretend don't exist."
A sudden stillness.
Celine grips her hand, the children hide in the arms of strangers, and the husband stands helpless, trying to keep up a mask of strength in front of guests who now clearly see him.
Lucien looks at Bella, asking quietly:
Lucien:
"Do you want to leave… or should we take them with us?"
Bella stayed silent for a moment.
Her eyes moved over everyone — the little girl clinging to her shirt, the boy in Lucien's arms, Celine's anxious face, then… Dean.
Bella's gaze toward him was sharp, precise, like slicing through his silly mask of arrogance.
Then… with a disturbingly calm gesture, she began to remove the girl's hand from her.
The girl tried to cling tighter, but Bella gently yet firmly pulled her hand away, opened her arms like saying goodbye.
The tragedy was in the girl's eyes…
As for Lucien, he paused briefly, stunned, as if something in him hadn't expected this from her.
Bella (with artificial calm):
"We should go. Thank you for the tea, Celine."
The room fell silent… the children froze, like the air had been sucked out.
Celine whispered something too faint to hear, while Lucien gave Bella a narrow look, trying to understand her motives.
Then… he saw Bella lean slightly to the little boy's ear, whispering while gently placing her hand on his head… and at the same time, her true words were meant for Lucien:
Bella (hidden whisper):
"Quick plan. We leave, pretend to go, I hid a pen in the living room… we return to retrieve it.
And activate the recording… if he says or does anything? We catch him. If not… we leave them for now.
But I… will never leave them, Lucien."
Lucien understood.
His expression softened, and he nodded lightly.
He understood that Bella wasn't cold… she was smarter than he thought.
They stood, and began to walk out…
Bella:
"Thank you, Celine. And you two… sleep well, little ones."
She didn't glance at Dean. No goodbye, no look, no word.
Lucien, with calm steps, walked first. As he passed Dean… he deliberately bumped shoulders.
The bump was solid as stone.
Dean staggered back a step, as if he'd hit a wall.
He raised his eyes, only to see Lucien staring back steadily, with clear superiority. Dean said nothing.
Then… Bella walked.
Her steps quiet, cold, then… she bumped him too.
Same move, but she was looking straight at him — a look that made him feel like nothing.
She was his height, but in her eyes… she carried an unseen volcano.
Dean (to himself):
"Who is this woman…? And why can't I speak?"
Then Bella… lightly turned to Celine, sent a quiet farewell glance into her eyes…
And whispered simply:
Bella (with deep calm):
"My return is soon…"
Lucien opens the door.
Bella steps out first…
Then Lucien gives one last glance into the house, a silent warning in his eyes…
Then leaves, and closes the door.
•••
Outside the house…
In the darkness, under the dim streetlight, Bella quickly opens her phone, enters the recorder, and presses "Record".
Then she looks at Lucien.
Bella (in a quick whisper):
"One minute and we'll be back… And if something happens? I won't spare anyone."
Lucien smiles faintly, that smile which only appears when he's about to break the rules for justice.
Lucien:
"Alright… my queen, let's get your precious pen back."
•••
Inside the house, a heavy silence hovered like dust…
The two children stood in place, staring at the closed door as if waiting for a miracle to bring back the two strangers.
Celine was trembling subtly, trying to arrange the tea cups on the table, while wiping away a tear that had slipped from her eyes without permission.
Suddenly… the man's voice, "Dean", rang out in his real tone, full of boiling anger.
Dean (with a muffled, angry voice):
"Is this cheap play finally over?! I feel like I'm living in an orphanage, not my own house! Where has your dignity gone, Celine?!"
Celine didn't respond, she only crossed her arms in front of her chest, as if protecting herself from his words that had always preceded his hand.
Dean (approaching her):
"You allowed them to touch my children as if they were theirs? That girl almost ruined everything… Didn't I tell you?! Don't talk! Don't interfere! Just keep silent!"
The little girl stepped back, holding her younger brother's hand, shrinking together in their small bodies, while the boy whispered softly, staring at his furious father:
Leo:
"They were better… We wanted to go with them…"
Dean (shouting):
"Silence! I am your father, not those strangers! Go with them?! Over my dead body!"
Celine finally intervenes, in a weak, tired voice:
Celine:
"They only wanted to help us…"
Dean (mocking):
"Help us? Or did you want to look like a poor victim?! I'm a man… I don't need the pity of an arrogant rich woman, nor her handsome lover who shows up like a fake rescue knight! They're all liars… And she believed you?!"
He suddenly approached the table, then struck it with his hand, causing some cups to scatter and fall. The two children trembled violently.
•••
Outside:
Bella and Lucien were standing behind the wall near the door. Bella held her phone, and her eyes gleamed with something like fire.
Lucien (whispering):
"Lady Bella… did you hear that?"
She didn't answer. She just stared at the door, her heart pulsing with those small words: "They were better… we wanted to go with them." Words that slipped into her soul and planted something that couldn't be ignored.
Bella (with firm calm):
"Open the door, Lucien."
•••
Inside – the door opens suddenly
Bella appeared first, her eyes like shards of ice, and behind her stood Lucien, tall and silent as a statue.
Dean turned in shock:
Dean:
"You?! You came back? Why?!"
Bella (stepping forward confidently):
"I forgot something… but it's worth nothing compared to what I'd lose if I left those two kids here."
She pulls out her phone… presses "play", and Dean's voice begins to fill the room: his yelling, his insults, his threats, and the children's trembling voices.
Celine places a hand over her mouth, tears sliding down quietly. As for Dean, his face went pale, then he began shouting furiously:
Dean:
"This is illegal! You're recording me?! I didn't give permission—!"
Lucien (coldly):
"And we don't need your permission, as long as there are two children at risk. The law is on our side. And now… listen closely: if you don't leave this house tonight, I'll make sure you wake up tomorrow in police custody, facing charges that go beyond abuse."
Bella leans down toward Celine, whispering with deep gentleness:
Bella:
"I'm sorry you went through all of this… but you won't stay in it any longer."
Then she turns to the children, opening her arms… and they run into her without hesitation.
Émie (crying):
"We told you not to leave..."
Bella (as she hugs her):
"I didn't leave… I was just coming back to take you with me."
While Dean looks at Lucien, then at Bella, as if searching for an escape… but he finds something else:
Dean (angrily, furiously):
"Damn all of you…!"
Suddenly, he lunges at Bella… who straightens the moment she feels Dean charging toward her like a beast.
But she doesn't take a step back.
In a flash, she dodges his fist, spins her body with unbelievable speed, a quick hit to his stomach throws him off balance, then a swift touch of her fingers to his neck—right on the pressure point of sleep. He collapses silently, like a puppet drained of air.
Everyone is silent, even the children gasp in shock.
Lucien (raising an eyebrow, in a joking whisper):
"I think you forgot to tell him good night first."
Bella (adjusting her hair):
"He wasn't worth even a glance."
She turns to Celine, gently extends her hand, and whispers in a soft but firm voice:
Bella:
"I'm sorry… I promise you and your kids will never feel afraid again."
Celine collapses to the ground, crying as if freed from a ghost that had held her captive for decades.
Dean lies unconscious, while neighbors begin gathering at the door after hearing the noise, and some of them start calling the police.
Location: At the police station – hours after the incident
Faint sounds fill the room… footsteps on the cold floor, fingers tapping on a computer keyboard. The scent of coffee and old records lingers in the air.
In a side room, Céline sits in silence, her hands between her knees, as if she still doubts what happened… as if it's truly over.
In front of her, Bella sits steadily, but her eyes are warmer than ever. Beside her, Lucien stands with his arms crossed and chest lifted, like a quiet shadow guarding a small light.
Bella (softly, but firmly):
"Céline… you've signed here. With this paper, we are officially filing for divorce, and with all the evidence you've provided, Dean won't be able to object. He'll be prosecuted for abuse and domestic violence, and he might go to prison for a long time."
Céline lifts her eyes, her gaze hesitant, dazed… then she nods slightly.
Céline (whispering):
"I feel like I was living in a shell… and now I've suddenly stepped into the world, and the air is different… I don't even know where to start…"
Bella (with a warm smile):
"You start where you stopped. Where you left yourself behind for someone else… We brought you back tonight, Céline."
A police officer gently interrupts and hands them some papers.
Officer:
"Dean is now in custody. He'll appear in court within days. You have full legal protection. And if he tries to get close… we've got everything documented."
Céline thanks her quietly. Then, as the officer leaves, Lucien steps forward, looking at Bella with a different expression this time. Not admiration, nor simple respect… but something closer to belief.
Lucien (with a small smile):
"I've never seen you like this before… turning into a real heroine before my eyes."
Bella, whose pride is rarely pierced, smiles… her eyes glimmering, and she replies lightly:
Bella:
"I don't need a cape or a mask, just a bit of anger and justice."
Then she turns to Céline, gently taking her hand.
Bella:
"Consider this a fresh start. I'll give you one of my mansion in Paris… not a fancy mansion, but it's safe, modern, beautiful, and big enough for your kids to feel like they belong."
Céline covers her mouth in emotion, another tear falls… then she stands and hugs Bella tightly.
Céline:
"I don't know… how to repay you for this…"
Bella (softly):
"By shouting loudly one day… when you see another woman going through what you did, and you decide not to leave her alone."
Outside that room, the children are asleep on a couch in a safe office, Amy's head resting on Leo's shoulder… and Lucien's eyes linger on them for a moment after he steps out.
Lucien (whispering to himself):
"Looks like our heroine just gathered a new family…"
A few days later – In Bella's modern small palace – Paris
A small contemporary palace on the outskirts of Paris. Sunlight streams through the glass windows, and the garden is filled with the sound of children's laughter. Amy plays with Leo on the grass, while Celine, wearing a stylish jacket, carries a work bag.
Bella (walking beside her, handing her a file):
"This is a grant to enter the university as a visiting professor. They read your old paper and approved immediately."
Celine laughs, finally, a pure laugh.
Celine:
"I didn't expect... to get a second chance."
Bella:
"It's not a chance, it's a life. And you'll be teaching it."
•••
Later: The Living Room – A little while after
Bella sits on the floor, wearing a cozy gray sweater and simple pants, her hair tied up casually. In front of her, Leo is busy trying to assemble a toy airplane, while Émie colors a bunny picture with messy but cheerful colors.
Leo (suddenly looking up and scanning with his eyes):
"Bella, where did Lucien go?"
Bella lifts her head from the sketchbook she was quietly drawing in and smiles warmly.
Bella:
"To his university... running from the crazy professors."
Émie (looking at her with curiosity):
"And you? Why don't you go to university?"
Bella (laughing):
"I graduated a long time ago."
The children exchange amazed glances, their eyes sparkling with curiosity.
Leo (genuinely shocked):
"A long time ago? How old are you?"
Bella places her hand on her chest as if struck by theatrical shock, then responds with sarcastic drama:
Bella:
"Twenty-six years old."
Émie (jaw dropping):
"Woooow!!!"
Leo (looking at her with admiration):
"So... you're old! But you look really young!"
Bella (winking and hitting the floor with a pillow):
"Tell that to my skin... it's the most expensive thing I own!"
The children burst into laughter, their giggles filling the room with warmth, just as a delicious scent begins to rise from the kitchen. The nanny enters, a woman in her late thirties with gentle features, wearing a white apron and a simple headscarf. She carries a tray with an elegant coffee cup and a light snack.
Nanny (in a soft voice filled with motherly warmth):
"This coffee is for you, Miss Bella... and for the little ones, a surprise: toast with jam and a sprinkle of chocolate."
Amy jumps, clapping with joy, while Leo shouts:
Leo:
"I'm the first to taste it!"
Bella takes the coffee cup, thanking the nanny with warm eyes, then watches the children as they eat and laugh.
A quiet moment... simple... but pulsing with meaning.
She sips the coffee gently and whispers to herself as she gazes at them:
Bella (with a faint smile):
"Being a hero isn't always about saving the world... sometimes it's about making it warm for those who've gone without it for too long."
The camera slowly rises toward the large glass window, revealing the blue Parisian sky, as the sound of children's laughter continues in the background, and the soft music fades away…
•••
External Shot – A Charming French Palace – Noon
The camera sneaks in from above, revealing a sprawling palace with a classical design. Its walls are coated in a soft blue hue adorned with golden ornaments, like carvings of kings from another era. The tall windows reflect the chandelier's light from inside, while trees surround the palace like silent guards.
Interior Shot – Reading Room – Dim Lighting
The room is spacious, its walls lined with bookshelves stretching up to the ceiling, filled with books from every color and era. In the center of the room, a man in his late twenties or early thirties sits on a dark leather couch, wearing a white shirt with the top button undone and a light grey jacket.
His dark black hair falls gently, and his eyes sit behind reflective glasses. He smiles softly while reading an evening newspaper, his dimples subtly appearing in a way that stirs unease.
Close-Up – The Newspaper
The headlines are led by a picture of Bella, standing in front of the police station, waving with a childlike innocent smile, while beside her, Celine is crying and Émie and Leo cling to her hand.
Headline: "Bella Leclair, the Fashion Queen... A Heroine in the Field Too!"
Side Headlines: "A French Duchess's Daughter Intervenes in a Domestic Violence Incident and Halts the Tragedy"
"Lucien… one of the youngest Intern Shows Unexpected Bravery"
"The Most Beautiful Woman in the World Proves That Beauty Doesn't Mean Silence"
Shot on the Man's Face – Focused Look
He doesn't care much about the other names, not even Lucien. His entire focus is on Bella's picture. He traces the lines of her face with his eyes as if he's memorized her features long ago.
Close-Up – Scattered Photos on the Table
Beside the newspaper, there are other pictures of Bella taken at various events: fashion shows, an opening ceremony, the moment she left the family estate…
Among them, a photo from police cameras shows Bella speaking with an officer, her expression calm and confident.
The Man (quietly, almost whispering, putting the newspaper aside):
"...You're still the same, Bella."
A Moment of Silence
He raises a cup of black tea, sips slowly, then looks at a fireplace where the flames dance.
The Man, with a sarcastic side-smile:
"Your taste in situations hasn't changed... nor your taste in trouble."
Quick Flashback – In Black and White
The shop – A fight over the last milk carton.
The same man holds the carton while a blonde young man (Lucien) argues with him with childish stubbornness.
Back to Present Time
The man lets out a short laugh, then stares again at Bella's photo, this time with eyes that don't just hold admiration... but something deeper, more dangerous, and perhaps far older than the present.
The Man (whispering):
"I'll see you soon... my Bella."
To be continued…