7 “He’s Not Enough for You.”

“I’m sorry, what was that?” Alexander asked, visibly shifting so Emily’s head no longer rested on him.

Sophia took a deep breath, composing herself once more. Emotions had no place in her plans, and she reminded herself of the task at hand.

“Nothing,” Sophia replied calmly. “I think I’ll be heading home now.”

“Really?” Emily chimed in, her voice laced with fake concern. “The party is just getting started.”

“Umm, Emily,” Alexander interjected, “Why don’t you go back in? I’ll join you in just a moment.”

Emily glared at Alexander, clearly disgruntled, but obediently turned to leave. Sophia couldn’t help but watch as Alexander’s eyes followed Emily down the hallway.

Once Emily was out of earshot, Alexander turned his attention back to Sophia. “My family and Emily’s family have been close friends for many years. She’s very ambitious but naive. I brought her into my company after she graduated from the University of Chicago last year. It was a way to guide and protect her in this ruthless world.”

Sophia studied Alexander closely as he spoke. His explanation of their relationship might work on other women, but she knew better than to fall for his facade.

As Sophia glanced down the hallway and noticed Emily waiting and watching, she tried to stifle a giggle but failed.

believed he had successfully put Sophia at ease and joined in her laughter.

lower back, and

Johnson, for your help in this matter. It means a

look between Emily and Alexander. Sister, my ass, she thought bitterly.

relationship, I assure you,” Sophia replied,

him away from Sophia, and says, “Mr. Stone, you still have several people to talk to. The mayor has been asking about

paperwork drawn up tonight and send it to your office first thing in

hangs tightly onto Alexander’s arm,, and Alexander does

his party.”

chatter of the guests. Sophia settles onto a barstool, her eyes

you like, lovely lady?” the bartender

voice carrying a hint of resolution. She’s prepared to nurse her wounded ego with as many whiskeys

measure and offers it with an authentic smile. Sophia takes a sip, feeling the warmth of the amber liquid cascade down her throat, momentarily soothing her inner turmoil. She nods in gratitude

man in his late twenties takes the seat next to

any woman’s heart. “I’ll have what the lady is having,” he says, his

the man leans closer, his eyes twinkling with intrigue. “Quite

effects of the whiskey have rendered her immune to the emotional

her intently, undeterred by her guarded demeanor. “So tell me, why would such an unbelievably gorgeous woman be sitting at a bar all alone? It

meet the man’s gaze, her voice alluring. “I don’t know; it could be because

Sophia alone at the bar. Her words hang in

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