Everything changed overnight

(Ash and Jack, still reeling from the surprise announcement of their engagement, try to process the situation.)

ASH: (stammering) I... I had no idea.

(Jack, trying to maintain his composure, manages a smile.)

JACK: (graciously) Well, if this is what our families want, then I'm more than happy to go along with it. Besides, I think I can handle a few of your tantrums.

(Ash's shock begins to subside, replaced by a faint smile.)

ASH: (softly) Thank you, Jack.

(Their parents beam with pride as they bring out a large cake adorned with decorations.)

ASH'S MOTHER: (excitedly) Let's celebrate this wonderful occasion with some cake!

(Jack and Ash, still processing the news, exchange a glance before approaching the cake. Together, they cut a slice and share a plate, symbolizing their newfound engagement.)

ASH: (eyeing the ring on her finger) Oh, Jack, look at this ring! It's beautiful!

(Jack smiles proudly, noticing the customized diamond ring with Ash's initials engraved on it.)

JACK: (admiringly) You deserve nothing but the best, Ash.

(Ash's heart swells with emotion as she gazes at Jack, overwhelmed by the sudden turn of events. Jack leans in close, a mischievous twinkle in his eye.)

JACK: (teasingly) May I have the honor of kissing my fiancée?

(Ash's cheeks flush with a mixture of surprise and excitement.)

ASH: (playfully) Well, since you asked so nicely... okay.

(With a smile, Jack leans in and gently presses his lips to Ash's, sealing their engagement with a sweet and tender kiss.)

[ALI'S APARTMENT - NIGHT]

(Ali sits alone in his apartment, brooding over recent events. His phone buzzes, and he picks it up to see a message from Ash. His heart sinks as he reads the news of her engagement to Jack.)

ASH (via text): Ali, I hope you're doing well. I wanted to let you know that Jack and I are engaged. It's all happened so suddenly, but I hope you understand. Take care.

(Ali's grip tightens on his phone as he struggles to process the message. Emotions of disbelief, hurt, and sadness wash over him.)

ALI: (muttering to himself) Engaged... to Jack.

(He stares at the message for a long moment, his mind racing with conflicting thoughts and emotions. Finally, he takes a deep breath and responds with a simple reply.)

ALI (via text): Congratulations, Ash. I wish you both all the happiness in the world.if you are happy i will be happy.

(As he sends the message, a wave of resignation washes over him. Despite his inner turmoil, he knows that he must accept Ash's decision and find a way to move forward.)

(ALI'S PHONE SCREEN: Message Sent)

(Ali sets his phone aside, his expression unreadable as he reflects on the sudden turn of events in his relationship with Ash.)

IN BALCONY -

(Ash and Jack stand on the balcony, the city lights twinkling in the distance. They share a moment of quiet contemplation before Ash breaks the silence.)

ASH: Jack, can I ask you something?

JACK: Of course, Ash. What's on your mind?

ASH: Well, if you had the chance to marry your crush, would you take it?

(Jack looks at Ash, a hint of hesitation in his expression.)

JACK: Honestly, Ash, I was about to tell you earlier... it's you.

(Ash's eyes widen in surprise, her heart skipping a beat.)

ASH: Me? But why didn't you say anything sooner?

JACK: I thought you would have realized. I mean, the way I've been around you, the day I asked you out but didn't say anything... And your posters in my room, they're not just decorations, Ash. They're reminders of how much you mean to me.

(Ash's cheeks flush with color as she processes Jack's confession. She takes a moment to collect her thoughts before speaking.)

ASH: I... I didn't realize. I'm sorry, Jack. I'm disappointed in myself.

JACK: Don't be. It's okay. What matters is that we're here now, having this conversation.

(They share a small smile, the tension between them easing.)

ASH: You know, Jack, our journey together has been quite something, hasn't it?

JACK: It certainly has. From high school crushes to engagement... Who would've thought?

(They both chuckle, reminiscing about their shared experiences.)

ASH: Jack, if... if I were to like someone else, would you help me set things up with them?

(Jack nods, a reassuring smile on his face.)

JACK: Of course, Ash. Your happiness means everything to me. If there's someone special in your life, I'll do whatever it takes to make it happen.

ASH: (smiling) Thanks, Jack. But you know, Ali and I are just siblings. Nothing more.

(Jack's smile widens as he nods in understanding, a sense of relief washing over him.)

JACK: Got it. Well, as long as you're happy, that's all that matters.

(They share a warm embrace, grateful for their deep bond and understanding of each other.)

[IN JACK'S ROOM - NIGHT]

(Ash and Jack stand face to face, their conversation taking a serious turn.)

JACK: Ash, I want you to stay here with me, at least for now.

ASH: Jack, I appreciate the offer, but shouldn't it be up to our parents to decide?

(Jack steps closer to Ash, a determined look in his eyes.)

JACK: I know, but I can't help feeling incredibly drawn to you. I don't want you to be away from my sight.

(Ash's heart flutters at Jack's words, but she tries to remain level-headed.)

ASH: Jack, don't be silly. What if you get tired of seeing me all the time?

(Jack takes Ash's hands in his, his gaze unwavering.)

JACK: Ash, I could never get tired of you. You bring so much light into my life, and I can't imagine living without you.

(Ash's cheeks flush with color as Jack's words sink in. She leans in and kisses him softly.)

ASH: Oh, Jack, you're being ridiculous. But I appreciate your honesty and your affection.

JACK: I mean every word, Ash. I would gladly spend every moment of my life just to see you happy.

(They share a tender moment, their connection deepening as they express their feelings for each other.).

[IN LIVING ROOM - DAY]

(Ash and Jack sit nervously in the living room, awaiting a response from Ash's parents.)

JACK'S FATHER: (addressing Ash's parents) We understand your concerns, but we believe that Ash staying with us for a week could help both families get to know each other better before the wedding.

ASH'S FATHER: (hesitant) Well, we're not entirely comfortable with the idea of Ash staying here before marriage.

JACK'S MOTHER: (interjecting) Please, consider it as an opportunity for Ash to become acquainted with our family and our way of life.

ASH'S MOTHER: (softening) I suppose a week wouldn't hurt, and it might help us all feel more at ease about the upcoming marriage.

(Ash and Jack exchange hopeful glances as their parents continue to discuss.)

JACK'S FATHER: Thank you for understanding. We promise to take good care of Ash and ensure her comfort during her stay.

ASH'S FATHER: Alright, we'll agree to this arrangement for now, but we'll be keeping a close eye on things.

ASH'S MOTHER: (smiling) Ash, dear, make sure to enjoy, alright?

ASH: Of course, Mom. Thank you for allowing me to stay, and thank you, Jack's parents, for your hospitality.

(Jack and Ash breathe a sigh of relief as the agreement is reached, paving the way for Ash to stay with Jack for the week.)

(Jack and Ash sit with their parents, discussing the future of their relationship and their involvement in the family business.)

JACK'S FATHER: We've been considering the future of our company, and we believe that it would be beneficial to have both Jack and Ash join us.

ASH'S FATHER: (nodding) It's an interesting proposal. Ash has shown great potential, and I believe she could contribute positively to the company.

ASH'S MOTHER: We've always wanted what's best for Ash, and if this opportunity allows her to grow professionally and be with Jack, then we're on board.

JACK'S MOTHER: (smiling) We're thrilled at the prospect of having Ash as part of our team. Her skills and dedication would be invaluable to us.

JACK: (looking at Ash) What do you think, Ash? Would you be interested in joining the company with me?

ASH: (smiling) It sounds like an amazing opportunity, and I'd love to be part of it. Plus, working together would allow us to spend even more time together.

JACK'S FATHER: Excellent! We'll make the necessary arrangements to integrate both of you into the company smoothly.

ASH'S FATHER: Thank you for this opportunity. We'll do our best to contribute to the success of the company.

(A sense of excitement fills the room as plans are made for Ash and Jack to join forces professionally, further solidifying their bond and future together.)

[IN ASH'S ROOM - NIGHT]

(Ash enters her room, accompanied by Jack. She looks around, taking in the cozy atmosphere and personal touches.)

JACK: (gesturing around the room) Here it is, your temporary home for the week. I hope you like it.

ASH: (smiling) It's lovely, Jack. Thank you for letting me stay here.

JACK: (grinning) Anytime, Ash. You're always welcome here.

(Ash's parents enter the room, carrying their bags.)

ASH'S FATHER: (looking around) This is a nice room, Ash. Are you comfortable staying here?

ASH: (nodding) Yes, Dad. It's perfect.

ASH'S MOTHER: (smiling) We're glad you'll be staying with Jack. It'll give you two a chance to spend more time together.

JACK: Absolutely. I'll make sure Ash feels right at home.

(Ash's parents exchange a glance, silently communicating their approval of Jack and his hospitality.)

---

(Ash sits on the sofa, talking on the phone with Ali. She listens intently, nodding occasionally as Ali speaks.)

ASH: (into the phone) I'm sorry, Ali. I should've told you earlier. I didn't want to disturb you while you were sleeping, and my parents insisted on taking me to the hospital.

(Ali's voice comes through the phone, muffled but concerned.)

ALI: (through the phone) It's okay, Ash. I'm just glad you're alright. I was worried when I couldn't reach you.

ASH: (smiling) I know, and I appreciate your concern. But everything's fine now, thanks to my parents and Jack.

ALI: (relieved) That's good to hear. Just take care of yourself, okay? And if you need anything, don't hesitate to call me.

ASH: (gratefully) I will, Ali. Thank you for always being there for me.

(They exchange a few more words before ending the call, both feeling reassured by their conversation.)

(Ash sits on the edge of her bed, reflecting on her conversation with Ali. She feels grateful for his concern and support, knowing that he'll always be there for her no matter what.)

(Ash sits on her bed, looking up as Jack enters with a tray of snacks. She smiles warmly at him.)

JACK: (setting down the tray) I brought some snacks for us to enjoy while we watch a movie. If you're okay with it, I can stay for a while longer. I don't want to disturb your privacy.

ASH: (grateful) Jack, you're always thinking about me and asking me how I want things. I love that about you. It's rare to find someone as considerate as you.

(Jack's face lights up with a smile at her words, pleased by her appreciation.)

JACK: (grinning) Well, I'm glad to hear that. I'll always try to make you happy, Ash.

(Ash gestures for him to join her on the bed, and they settle in together, enjoying each other's company and the movie playing on the screen.)