He leaned against a shelf, watching her.
Xander: "A seeker of truths."
Amelia: "Is that so wrong?"
Xander: "Not at all. Though some truths are hidden for a reason."
Amelia: "Now who's being mysterious?"
He laughed lightly.
Xander: "Perhaps we're both playing the same game."
Amelia: "And what's that?"
Xander: "A dance of curiosity and caution."
She faced him directly.
Amelia: "Then maybe we should stop dancing around and be direct."
Xander: "What would you like to know?"
Amelia: "Why does someone as influential as you shy away from public life?"
He considered her question.
Xander: "I've found that true influence doesn't require a spotlight."
Amelia: "An interesting philosophy."
Xander: "And what about you? Why journalism?"
Amelia: "I've always been fascinated by people's stories. Everyone has one, and they're all worth telling."
Xander: "Even mine?"
Amelia: "Especially yours."
He walked closer, the space between them shrinking.
Xander: "You might not like everything you uncover."
Amelia: "I'm willing to take that risk."
Their gazes locked, tension thick in the air.
Xander: "You're quite bold, Miss Hart."
Amelia: "Life's too short to be anything else."
He reached out, gently brushing a stray hair from her face.
Xander: "I admire that."
Her heart raced at his touch, but she maintained her composure.
Amelia: "You know, this would make for a great interview."