INT. BLOSSOM TEASHOP - DAY The chime of the doorbell announces the entrance of JEANNINE, 18, rowdy and dressed in a bright tank top, cut-off shorts, and worn sandals. She surveys the quaint shop with a disdainful smirk, spotting her cousin DAVE, 20s, apron-clad, behind the counter. Their eyes meet; Dave's are filled with reluctant recognition, Jeannine's dance with mischief. JEANNINE Well, if it isn't my dear cousin slaving away. Who would've thought? Dave rolls his eyes and exhales, bracing himself. DAVE Jeannine. What a... surprise. What can I get you? Their interaction is stiff, forced. Unexpectedly, the curtain behind the counter parts and STELLA, the owner, steps out. She's a radiant figure in her 60s, with an air of wisdom wrapped in her boho attire, each piece telling a story. STELLA Hello, dear! I'm Stella. What brings you to my little haven? Jeannine is taken aback by the sudden warmth, her smirk softening into a half-smile. JEANNINE I was just passing by... Stella wraps an arm around Dave, who stiffens unusually. STELLA Dave, always so tense. Let's show your cousin how we find peace here. JEANNINE Peace? That's a laugh. Stella gives Dave a knowing look, her eyes glinting with a mix of mischief and control. The room grows strangely still. Stella's voice softens, rhythmic, a gentle but firm lull. STELLA Just breathe, Dave... like we practiced. Deep breath in, slowly out. Dave hesitates for a split second before his shoulders slump and his gaze goes distant. He breathes deeply, visibly relaxing into a state of surrender. Jeannine watches, bewildered. STELLA (CONT'D) You trust me, Dave. Let go and find that quiet place within... Jeannine's prior glee is replaced by astonishment as Dave slips further into oblivion, his expression blank. JEANNINE What the... how do you do that? Stella smiles, a combination of kindness and a secret thrill at her own ability. STELLA It's simple when you know how. And now for a little fun. JEANNINE Fun? I'm listening... Stella leans down to whisper something in Dave's ear. His blank expression holds. STELLA Dave, I want you to become mindless and kneel at Jeannine's feet. Without a flicker of conflict, Dave, the obedient automaton, steps around the counter and gracefully lowers himself to the floor at Jeannine's sandaled feet. His head bows, submissive. Jeannine bursts into laughter, her early tension melting away into sheer delight. JEANNINE Oh, my god. Dave, you look ridiculous. This is priceless! Stella chuckles, proud of her handiwork. STELLA Just a bit of harmless fun. But let's keep this our little secret, shall we? Jeannine, still laughing, nods in agreement, snapping pictures with her phone. JEANNINE Oh, absolutely. This is just between us... and all my followers. Stella raises an eyebrow, slightly concerned but amused. STELLA Just remember, dear, what happens at Blossom Teashop stays at Blossom Teashop. Jeannine smirks, locking her phone and pocketing it, her attitude softened by the shared secret. FADE OUT.