The Ceo’S Hidden Daughter
The Flash of Memory
He’s sat in his office, sat at the back of his table
Marcelo Devin(ML)
I know that face. I’ve known it since she walked in.
He leans back in his chair, eyes scanning the screen, unable to focus on his report
He calls in his assistant into his office
Marcelo Devin(ML)
Can you pull employees files from 4 years ago?
Marcelo Devin(ML)
Internal staff photos, especially project team rotations.
Marcelo’s Assistant
Yes boss. Any department in particular?
Marcelo Devin(ML)
PR. Admin. Strategy. Anyone from the “vision 2020” campaign team
Marcelo’s Assistant
Got it boss.
He scrolls through the archived photo folder on his computer on his desk, one image after another. Until-
A photo from 4 years ago— a team group shot. There she is. Long caramel- brown hair. A slightly younger Sophie, smiling softly at the edge of the frame
Marcelo Devin(ML)
It’s her.
Marcelo Devin(ML)
* internal* we weren’t just coworkers. We were something. She left the morning after, no note, no cell. I thought she just wanted to forget it.
He continues staring at the screen. The photo still open.
Marcelo Devin(ML)
She changed her hair color. That’s why I couldn’t place you.
Marcelo Devin(ML)
You disappeared without a trace. Now you’re back in my life. But why now? What is she hiding?
Marcelo Devin(ML)
*he frowns* What aren’t you telling me? You acted like you didn’t want me to know who you were and avoided me
Scene shift: Sophie’s apartment. Cozy and warm. A soft lullaby plays from Elora’s tablet. Sophie sits on the couch with her daughter asleep on her lap)
Sophie Blake(FL)
*internal* I saw the flicker in his eyes. He almost remembered me
She gently lifts Elora and lays her in bed, covering her with a soft pink blanket
Elora
Mommy… is your boss nice?
Sophie Blake(FL)
He’s…. Complicated. I still haven’t gotten to know him well
Elora
Does he scare you? Does he make my mummy afraid?
Sophie Blake(FL)
(Pauses, stroking her hair): A little. But I’m not running this time
She kisses her forehead and heads to the living room, pouring tea. Her hands shake slightly
Marcelo is now in his house. Staring at the laptop on his desk, still staring at the photo.
(He leans back, lips pressed into a line)
Marcelo Devin(ML)
She left her job without notice. HR couldn’t reach her. She ghosted the company— and me
Marcelo Devin(ML)
I thought it was guilt. Or regret. Thought she was just taking a break for a little while to get her mind on track but she actually left
He opens her Carter & Co. profile, eyes scanning her new title. Strategy consultant. Based in another city until recently
Marcelo Devin(ML)
She’s been keeling her distance for years. So why come back now?
Marcelo Devin(ML)
What are you hiding Sophie?
He closes his laptop. Gets up. Stares out the window as the city buzzes below.
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