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. “I’ll admit

His hand rested gently on her lower back, and she chose not to brush it away. Upon reaching Emily,

It means

she thought bitterly. That woman is the reason why Alexander divorced me;

is indeed a mutually beneficial relationship, I assure you,” Sophia

trying to pull him away from Sophia, and says, “Mr. Stone, you still have several people to talk

I will have the paperwork drawn up tonight and send it to your office first thing in the morning. In the meantime,

Alexander and Emily disappear into the crowd. Emily hangs tightly onto Alexander’s arm,, and Alexander does

enjoy his party.” She moves toward

guests. Sophia settles onto a barstool, her eyes scanning the

would you like, lovely lady?” the bartender flirts, drawing

How about a whiskey neat,” Sophia answers, her voice carrying a hint of resolution. She’s prepared to nurse her wounded ego

a generous 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 and turns to observe

whiskey, a man in his late twenties takes the seat next to her. He is

“I’ll have what the lady is having,” he

the man leans closer, his eyes twinkling with

The effects of the whiskey have rendered her immune to the

be sitting at a bar all alone?

the man’s gaze, her voice alluring. “I don’t know; it could be because I’m going through a divorce that threatens to leave me

alone at the bar. Her words hang in

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