Love and Loss

INT. SOFIA'S APARTMENT - DAY

The sun filters through the window, casting a warm glow over the room. Sofia's eyes flutter open. As she climbs out of bed, her phone chimes with a new message. She picks it up, her smile widening as she reads it.

TEXT MESSAGE: Hey, beautiful. Are you up? 

Sofia smiles, her fingers quickly typing out a response.

TEXT MESSAGE: Good morning, handsome. 

Yes, I'm up. How about you?

She waits for a few moments, anticipation building as she imagines Sebastian's reply. Finally, her phone vibrates again.

TEXT MESSAGE: I'm up and ready for another round if you are. 

Sofia chuckles, a mischievous grin spreading across her face.

TEXT MESSAGE: Oh, you think you can handle me again so soon? 

She hits send, eager for his response. After a few moments, her phone vibrates again.

TEXT MESSAGE: Baby, I can handle you any time, any place.  But seriously, what's on the agenda for today?

They switched to voice call 

Sofia: I got nothing much to do in the office and later in the evening we have that ball to go 

Sebastian: oh that I forgot 

Sofia rolls her eyes playfully.

Sofia: Seriously? It's the event of the season, how could you forget?  You are their high guest and it is important to your company 

Sebastian chuckles, a sheepish grin on his face.

Sebastian: I know, I know. But can you blame me for being distracted by you? 

Sofia bites her lip, a blush rising on her cheeks.

Sofia: Maybe just a little bit. But seriously, what are you wearing tonight?

Sebastian smirks, his mind already racing with possibilities.

Sebastian: You'll just have to wait and see, won't you? But trust me, it'll be worth the wait. 

Sofia grins, her eyes dancing with anticipation.

Sofia: Well, don't disappoint me. I expect nothing less than perfection. 

Sebastian: Don't worry, I won't let you down. Now, go get ready for our big night out.

Sofia: Mr Walter unlike you have I to go to the office  

Sebastian smiles, a twinkle in his eye.

Sebastian: Ah, yes. The plight of the working woman. Tell you what, how about I pick you up after work and we can get ready together?

Sofia nods, a grin spreading across her face.

Sofia: Sounds like a plan. Just make sure you're on time.

Sebastian chuckles.

Sebastian: I wouldn't dare keep you waiting. 

Later that evening, Sofia emerges from her office building, a smile spreading across her face as she spots Sebastian waiting for her in his sleek black sports car.

Sofia: Well, you're actually on time. I'm impressed.

Sebastian smiles, leaning in to kiss her cheek.

Sebastian: Anything for you, love. Shall we head back to my place?

Sofia nods, climbing into the passenger seat.

Sofia: Lead the way.

The car purrs to life, the engine roaring as Sebastian pulls onto the street, weaving through the city traffic with expert precision.

As they drive, Sofia glances over at Sebastian, admiring the confident way he handles the car.

Sofia: You know, I always forget how much I love seeing you behind the wheel. 

Sebastian smiles, his eyes focused on the road ahead.

Sebastian: Glad to be of service, madam. Just don't get too distracted by my driving skills.

The car arrives at Sebastian's Mansion, the building's doorman nodding respectfully as Sebastian parks in front of the house.

Sebastian: Here we are. After you, madam.

Sofia picks up her bag and the cloth bag as they make their way inside the house. She went straight to the room. 

Sofia enters the master bedroom, setting her bags on the bed and turning to Sebastian with a playful smile.

Sofia: Well, Mr. Walter. What's your plan for getting me ready for the ball?

Sebastian grins, his eyes dancing with mischief as he steps towards her, his hands sliding around her waist.

Sebastian: Oh, I think I'll start with a little relaxation. After all, you deserve it after a hard day's work.

Sofia chuckles, her body melting into his as he pulls her close.

Sebastian kisses Sofia softly, his lips brushing against hers as his hands roam her body, teasing and caressing her curves.

Sebastian: You know, I think we have just enough time for a little pre-ball fun. 

Sofia smiles, her heart pounding with anticipation as he leads her to the bed 

Sofia: Oh, do we now? I guess that means we have to be quick about it.

Sebastian grins, his fingers working the buttons of her dress as he kisses his way down her neck.

Sebastian guides Sofia into the master bathroom, his lips never leaving her skin as he continues to undress her. Sofia moans softly, her hands roaming his chest as he unzips her dress and lets it fall to the floor.

Sebastian: Mmm, you are a vision, Sofia.

Sofia laughs, her fingers teasing the waistband of his pants as she leans in for a kiss.

Sofia: And you are a tease, Sebastian. But I think it's time to get serious.

 Sofia smiles, her eyes gleaming with desire as she presses her body against Sebastian's, her lips teasing his ear.

Sofia: So, tell me, Mr. Walter. How do you plan on making this quick?

Sebastian smirks, his hands sliding down her sides as he whispers into her ear.

Sebastian: Oh, I think we can manage a quickie in here. What do you say, Ms. Miller? Are you up for a little challenge?

Sebastian grins, his hands roaming Sofia's body as he draws her closer.

Sebastian: Don't worry, love. I'm a man of my word.

With that, he takes her in a passionate embrace, their bodies moving in a frenzied rhythm as the water swirls around them. The pleasure builds quickly, and before long, Sofia gasps, her body shuddering with release.

Sebastian: Mmm, that was quick, wasn't it?

Sofia laughs, her body still trembling with pleasure as she climbs out of bed. 

Sofia smiles, her eyes dancing with amusement as she steps into the bathroom, a playful glint in her eyes.

A few minutes later she came out, her hair dripping water. She dries her hair and walked to the mirror 

Sofia: Well, I must say, you've certainly got the art of the quickie down to a science.

Sebastian laughs, his eyes following her as she moves towards the mirror.

Sebastian: You bring out the best in me, Sofia.

He walked to the drawer close and pulled out a box. He opened it, there was a pearl necklace and earrings 

Sofia grins, her fingers deftly applying her makeup as she glances over her shoulder at him.

Sofia gasps, her hand instinctively flying to her mouth as she takes in the stunning jewellery.

Sofia: Sebastian...this is breathtaking. Where did you get this?

Sebastian smiles, his eyes alight with pride as he takes the necklace and helps her put it on.

Sebastian: I had it custom-made, just for you. The pearls reminded me of your beauty, your grace. They're the only gems worthy of adorning such a goddess.

Sofia's eyes well up with tears as she turns to face him, her hands touching the delicate pearls against her skin.

Sofia: You really know how to sweep a girl off her feet, don't you? I'm speechless, Sebastian. This is the most romantic thing anyone has ever done for me.

Sebastian cups her face in his hands, his voice soft and tender.

Sebastian: You deserve nothing less, my love. You've brought so much joy into my life. I wanted to show you just how much I cherish you.

Sebastian places a gentle kiss on her forehead, his arms wrapping around her waist as he whispers.

Sebastian: Get dressed I will be waiting for you downstairs 

She couldn't help but ask 

Sofia: Sebastian what if people see us come down together, do you think they will know 

Sebastian: they won't beside it's a ball you need a partner. Dress up 

Sofia smiles, a twinkle of anticipation in her eyes as she nods.

Sofia: I won't keep you waiting long, Mr. Walter.

With a wink and a flirtatious smile, she turns and disappears into the closet to finish getting ready, her mind already racing with thoughts of the night ahead.

Sebastian stands alone in the bathroom, his heart beating a little faster as he thinks about the evening that awaits. He straightens his tie, adjusts his cufflinks, and runs a hand through his hair before making his way downstairs, ready to start their night together.

A few moments later, she appears at the top of the grand staircase, her gown shimmering like moonlight in the ballroom's chandelier light. Sebastian's breath catches in his throat as she descends the stairs, the pearl necklace he gave her glistening against her skin.

Sofia reaches the bottom of the stairs, a radiant smile on her face as she approaches Sebastian.

Sebastian: You look beautiful 

Sofia: thank you ( she blushed) you look handsome yourself 

In the ballroom, Sebastian surveys the crowd, spotting several familiar faces from the art world. He greets them with a smile and a handshake, all the while keeping an eye out for Sofia. They glide through the crowd, their presence commanding the attention of all those in attendance. Cameras flash as they pass, reporters vying for their attention and photographs. Sebastian navigates the sea of people with ease, his charismatic smile never wavering as he makes polite conversation and accepts compliments.

As the night wears on, Sebastian and Sofia dance, laugh, and flirt their way through the crowd, sharing private jokes and smiles that only they understand. As the clock strikes midnight, Sebastian leads Sofia to a quiet corner of the ballroom, away from prying eyes and ears.

Sebastian: Sofia, this night has been nothing short of magical. I've had the most wonderful time with you.

He places a hand gently on her cheek, his eyes meeting hers with a look of longing.

Noah: Mr Walter, I knew you would be coming but not with a partner ( he reached his hand to Sofia) You must be sofia, have heard good things about you ( he smiled ) I'm Noah 

She took his hand for a shake 

Sofia: Nice to meet you, Noah 

Noah: so you're the one causing trouble for my dear friend lately 

Sebastian smirks at Noah's comment, a playful glint in his eye.

Sebastian: Trouble? I wouldn't call it that. I think the word you're looking for is "inspiration".

Noah laughs, shaking his head in mock exasperation.

Noah: Well, whatever it is, you're certainly keeping him on his toes. Just don't tire him out too much—he's still got a lot of great art left in him.

Sofia smiles, glancing up at Sebastian with a mischievous twinkle in her eye.

The three of them continue their conversation, trading jokes and stories as the ballroom buzzes around them. As the conversation winds down, Noah looks at his watch.

Noah: Well, I'd hate to interrupt, but I'm afraid I must be going. The wife is probably wondering where I am.

Sofia: You are married?

Noah: No ( he laughs ) but I really have to go. You too be careful the are reporters looking for ways to make extra money.

Sofia: It was a pleasure meeting you, Noah. I hope we can chat again soon.

Noah smiles, his eyes crinkling with genuine warmth.

Noah: It was a pleasure meeting you too, Sofia.

As Noah takes his leave, Sebastian and Sofia are left alone once again. They stand in comfortable silence for a moment, their eyes locked in an unspoken exchange.

Sebastian: Why are you quite 

Sofia: because he saw us at the office… you know what I mean, it's embarrassing 

Sebastian: ( he smiled ) Am not 

Sofia: ( rolls her eyes ) I bet you don't 

Sebastian: But hey, I had a wonderful time tonight. Thank you for making it so special.

Sofia: The pleasure was all mine. I can't think of anyone else I'd rather share a night like this with.

He leans in, placing a soft kiss on her lips. It's a tender moment, brief but full of meaning.

The next day, Sofia arrives at work to find herself bombarded with curious glances and whispers from her colleagues. She can feel the weight of the rumours swirling around her as she makes her way to her desk. 

Shortly after she sits down, a message appears on her computer screen: "Please report to the boardroom for an urgent meeting." Sofia's heart pounds in her chest as she rises from her chair and follows the hallways to the imposing boardroom. 

Inside, the board of directors sits around a long table, their faces serious and judgmental.

Sofia stands at the head of the table, her hands clasped tightly in front of her as she meets the gaze of each board member in turn.

The board chairman clears his throat, his expression grave.

Chairman: Ms. Miller, I'm sure you're aware of the rumours circulating about your relationship with Mr. Walter. These rumours have called into question your integrity and professionalism as an employee of this organization.

Sofia takes a deep breath, gathering her thoughts.

Sofia: I understand your concerns, but I assure you that my personal life does not impact my work. Mr. Walter and I are simply two business partners who share a mutual appreciation.

 Chairman: And am sure you read the rules and regulations of the company 

Sofia: Yes sir I did 

The chairman raises an eyebrow.

Chairman: And the fact that you arrived together at the gala, that you were seen with him throughout the night—these are just coincidences, then?

Sofia: No, sir. It was an unfortunate misunderstanding.

Sebastian Walter his eyes blaze with anger as he marches into the room, his hands clenched into fists. The board members exchange surprised looks, clearly caught off guard by Sebastian's sudden appearance.

Sebastian: Who dares to hold a meeting without informing me? Sofia is our newest business partner and thanks to her our new project has become more than successful. She has never been to a company ball since working for us and it's only normal to give her a ride as a way to thank her. If anyone objects you can clean your table and leave. I don't want to hear about this topic again and make sure all media platforms clear Sofia's name, you should be fighting for your own and not against them

The board members shift uncomfortably in their seats, exchanging nervous glances with one another. The chairman clears his throat, his gaze darting back and forth between Sebastian and Sofia.

Chairman: Mr. Walter, you're right. We should not have jumped to conclusions. Ms. Miller is indeed a valuable asset to our organization, and we have no intention of damaging her reputation.

Sebastian's expression softens slightly, but his eyes remain fixed on the chairman.

Sebastian: Good. See to it that you make a public statement to that effect.

The chairman nods, his posture stiff and rigid.

Chairman: Of course, Mr. Walter. We will issue a public apology to Ms. Miller immediately.

Sebastian nods curtly, his eyes still flashing with intensity.

Sebastian: Good. Now if there's nothing else, I have work to do.

Without another word, Sebastian looked at Sofia as she followed him behind. As they walk down the hallway, Sofia can feel the tension draining from her body.

As they step out of the building, the warm afternoon sun washes over their skin, a welcome relief after the tension of the meeting. Sebastian lets out a heavy sigh, his shoulders sagging.

Sebastian: I'm sorry you had to go through that, Sofia. I shouldn't have let it get to this point.

Sofia turns to face him, her expression soft and understanding.

Sofia: It's not your fault, Sebastian. You did what you thought was right. 

Sebastian: and Damon 

Sofia: I will take care of him, you don't have to worry. I think it's best if we stay far from each other for the main time. There will be eyes watching our every move

Sebastian: You know I can't stay without you Sofia 

Sofia: We still see but as partners nothing more, I don't want to do this Sebastian but your company and my career are on the line. It's just for the main time okay 

Sebastian: okay but don't forget to call or text me.. am always here if you need anything 

Sofia: Sure I better go inside before another topic comes up 

Sofia smiles, her heart aching as she turns to go back inside the building. Sebastian watches her go, his eyes following her retreating form with a mix of longing and regret. As the doors close behind her, he can't help but feel a sense of loneliness and uncertainty wash over him. 

He knows that this is the right decision, but he can't shake the feeling that something precious has been lost. He takes a deep breath, steeling himself for the difficult days ahead. The fight for their relationship may have just begun, but he is determined to win it, no matter the cost. The weeks pass by in a blur, and the silence between Sofia and Sebastian becomes deafening. Sofia throws herself into her work, trying to forget the emptiness that has taken root in her heart. Meanwhile, Sebastian finds himself slipping into old habits, disappearing to distract himself from the pain of missing Sofia. 

The days bleed into each other, and Sofia finds that the only thing that can bring her joy is the occasional message from Sebastian. 

Sofia startles awake at the sound of the incessant doorbell, the ringing echoing through her dreams. Still half-asleep, she staggers out of bed and down the hallway, fumbling for the light switch. 

One night while she was fast as sleep her doorbell continued ringing 

As she swings the door open, her eyes widen in surprise. Standing before her is Sebastian, his face a mask.

Sofia: Sebastian? What are you doing here? Is everything okay?

Sebastian: I...I'm sorry to bother you at this hour, Sofia.

Sebastian hesitates for a moment, his eyes searching her face for any sign of resistance. Seeing none, he steps into the apartment, closing the door behind him. 

Sofia leads him to the living room, sinking into the couch and motioning for him to sit down. They sit in silence for a few moments, the tension thick between them.

Finally, Sebastian speaks.

Sebastian: I'm sorry. I just...I couldn't stay away any longer.

Sofia looks at him, her heart aching at the vulnerability in his voice.

Sofia: Sebastian...I miss you, too. But we agreed that it was best to stay away from each other for the sake of our careers.

Sebastian: I know. But it's not that easy. I can't wait anymore, something pulls me back. It's like there's this magnetic force between us that I just can't resist.

Sofia's heart skips a beat at his confession, her breath catching in her throat. She shifts closer to him, her hand reaching out to touch his. Sebastian leans into her touch, his eyes closing as he savours the intimacy. Slowly, he turns his face towards hers, his lips parting in anticipation. 

As their lips meet, a rush of emotion floods through them. It's a kiss that speaks of a longing and a passion that has been simmering beneath the surface for months. They kiss again and again, their hands grasping at each other as if they're afraid they'll disappear if they let go.

Finally, they break apart, their foreheads touching as they catch their breath. 

Sebastian looks into her eyes, his voice soft and pleading. 

Sofia: Stay with me night 

Sebastian: You don't need to ask

They lie on the bed both naked covered with the sheets, Sofia is lying on Sebastian's chest as she breaks the silent 

Sofia: I will be travelling back home to visit my parents, it's been a long I saw them

Sebastian: How long will you be gone 

Sofia: three weeks 

Sebastian's arm tightens around her, a hint of sadness creeping into his voice.

Sebastian: Three weeks? That's a long time. I'll miss you.

Sofia: And I'll miss you, too. But I need to see my parents. They've been asking me to visit for months.

Sebastian: When do you leave?

Sofia: in a few weeks. But don't worry, I'll call you as soon as I land. And I'll be back before you know it.

Sebastian nods, a small smile gracing his lips as he holds her close.

Sebastian: In that case, we should make the most of the time we have left. I'll take you out to all of your favourite places, and we'll create memories that will last a lifetime.

Sofia's smile widens, her heart fluttering at his words.

Sofia: That sounds perfect. Just you and me, against the world.

They share a tender kiss, a silent vow between them to make the most of every moment they have together.

Two weeks pass as Sofia prepares to travel back to her home country. She was home doing the need when her phone rang, she was surprised to see her mom calling her she picks the call 

Sofia: Mom! 

Mrs Gabby: Sofia 

Sofia: Mom it's surprising to see you call. How are you 

Mrs Gabby: You need to come home Sofia 

Sofia: Mom I will, we talked about it. I will be there by next week I still have something to finish here

Mrs Gabby: ( sobbing )Sofia it's your father, he passed away last night 

Sofia: Mom stop talking nonsense, put dad on the phone now 

Mrs Gabby: Do you think I will joke about my husband's death ( she broke down in tears ) 

Sofia: No…no this can't be true. I spoke with Dad on Tuesday, and he was happy I would be coming. Mom, it's not true right 

Mrs Gabby: Sofia, honey as much as I want it not to be, it is. It is best if you come home early, we can't delay the funeral 

The call ends 

Sofia flooded with emotions, kept crying and she took her keys and drove to Sebastian's house 

As Sofia drives, the tears blur her vision, her mind replaying her last conversation with her father. She reaches Sebastian's house, barely remembering the drive, her emotions a tangled mess. 

Sebastian opens the door at her knock, his expression of surprise quickly replaced with concern as he takes in her tear-streaked face.

Sebastian: Sofia, what happened? Are you okay?

Sofia falls into his arms, her sobs wracking her body as she buries her face in his chest.

Sebastian holds her close, his heart breaking at the sight of Sofia's distress. He guides her inside, sitting her down on the couch and kneeling in front of her.

Sebastian: Sofia, please, tell me what's wrong. Whatever it is, we can face it together.

Sofia's sobs subside, and she lifts her head, her eyes red and puffy from crying.

Sofia: It's...it's my dad. He's...he's gone.

The words hang in the air between them, heavy and laden with grief. Sebastian's heart sinks, and he pulls Sofia into a tight embrace, stroking her hair gently.

Sebastian: Oh, Sofia. I'm so sorry.

Sofia: He was supposed to be here to see me next week.

Sebastian: I'm sorry Sofia.

Sofia: I know. I don't...I don't know what to do.

As the night wears on, Sebastian remains by Sofia's side, offering whatever comfort he can. He makes her tea, holds her as she cries, and listens to stories about her father, absorbing her grief as if it were his own.

Sofia's tears eventually subside, and she lays her head against Sebastian's chest, her breathing slowing to the rhythm of his heartbeat.

Sofia: I don't know how I'm going to get through this.

Sebastian: You don't have to do it alone, Sofia.

Sofia and Sebastian spend the night curled up on the couch, their bodies intertwined in a silent embrace. In the stillness of the night, they find solace in each other's presence, their hearts beating in harmony.

The sun begins to rise, the first rays of light filtering in through the windows. Sofia rises from the couch, her muscles stiff from the night's sleep. She stretches, her eyes falling on Sebastian standing in the kitchen, his back to her as he tends to a sizzling pan. The scent of bacon and eggs fills the air, bringing a small measure of warmth to her grieving heart.

Sebastian turns, a smile lighting up his face as he sees her.

Sebastian: Good morning, Sofia. I thought some food might help.

Sofia: It smells wonderful, Sebastian. Thank you.

The two of them sit down at the table, sharing a quiet breakfast. Despite the grief that hangs in the air, there's a sense of comfort and peace between them, a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there can be moments of light.

As they finish eating, Sebastian clears his throat, his expression serious.

Sebastian: I know this isn't an ideal time to talk about it, but we should probably start planning for your trip home.

Sofia nods, a sad smile crossing her face.

Sofia: Yes, you're right.

Sebastian nods, his eyes filled with understanding.

Sebastian: I'll make the necessary arrangements. Is there anything you need help with? I can call the airline, book the tickets, whatever you need.

Sofia: Thank you, Sebastian. I appreciate it.

Sebastian: And don't worry about work. I'll take care of things while you're away.

Sofia: Are you sure? I don't want you to overwork yourself.

Sebastian: Trust me, I can handle it. 

Sofia: I need to go home to package my other bag, I don't think I will be coming back anything soon Sebastian

Sebastian: It's okay sofia, Damon can cover up for you

Sofia: I can't still believe my dad is gone forever, am not going to see him again Sebastian

She started crying

Sebastian stood up from his sit and walked close to her

Sebastian: You will be fine, tho not anytime soon but you will be alright. Life knows how to take the best from us but you will find another, just like I found you. Always know am here for you sofia

Sofia: ( she hugs Sebastian ) Can I stay here for the main time? If I go am afraid I will do something crazy Sebastian

Sebastian: You don't have to ask, it's your home too