INT. COZY VANCOUVER COFFEE SHOP – RAINY EVENING
The rain streaks down the big windows. NELLY FURTADO, casual in a hoodie and beanie, sits across from JOE — regular guy, flannel shirt, tired but honest eyes. Two untouched lattes between them.
NELLY (leaning in, warm smile) Joe… you’re a regular guy. There’s no way around it. And that’s okay. That’s beautiful, actually.
JOE (small laugh) Thanks? I think.
NELLY All you have to do is bless Israel. That’s it. Genuflect a little. Stand up for her like the Sunday TV preachers do. Pastor Hagee built everything on it — money, influence, favor. “I will bless those who bless you.” It works, Joe. You could have that too. Financial success. Open doors. All of it.
She reaches across the table, gentle but intense.
NELLY (CONT’D) You don’t have to become a televangelist. Just make the choice in your heart. Bless her. Support her. The rest flows from there. I’m telling you this because I see something in you. Don’t stay stuck, Joe.
JOE (quiet, but firm — he sits back) Nelly… I appreciate you looking out for me. I really do. But I’m not doing that.
NELLY (confused) What do you mean?
JOE I’m not gonna bless Israel just so the universe cuts me a check. That’s not how I want to live. I’m not kneeling for money or “favor” or whatever prosperity gospel remix this is.
(beat, looking her in the eyes) I’ve got my own principles. My own conscience. I’m not trading them for a shot at Pastor Hagee’s lifestyle. Regular guy or not, I’m not for sale like that.
NELLY (soft, almost pleading) It’s not about selling out. It’s about alignment. Stepping into the blessing lane.
JOE (shakes his head, calm but resolute) My lane doesn’t go through genuflecting to any nation-state for personal gain. I’ll stand on what I actually believe — not what pays better. If that means staying regular forever… then I guess I’m regular forever.
He stands up, pulls on his jacket.
JOE (CONT’D) Thanks for the coffee, Nelly. And the song about the bird still slaps. But I’m not blessing Israel on command. Not today. Not ever.
Joe walks out into the rain. Nelly watches him go, a mix of surprise and respect on her face.
FADE OUT.
End of Scene.
