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.

Sophia at ease and joined in her laughter. “I’ll admit she’s a bit clingy, though.

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

this matter. It means a lot to me, to both

and Alexander. Sister, my ass, she thought bitterly. That woman

a mutually beneficial relationship, I assure you,” Sophia

turns to Alexander, obviously trying to pull him away from Sophia, and says, “Mr. Stone, you still have several people to talk to. The mayor has been asking

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

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

Sophia says to no one in particular, “might as well enjoy his party.” She moves

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

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

no, definitely need something stronger. How about a whiskey neat,” Sophia answers, her voice carrying a hint of resolution. She’s prepared to nurse her wounded ego with

smile. Sophia takes a sip, feeling the warmth of the amber liquid cascade down her throat, momentarily soothing her inner turmoil. She nods

a man in his late twenties takes the seat next to her.

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

eyes twinkling

her voice filled with resignation. The effects of the whiskey have rendered her immune to the emotional currents

an unbelievably gorgeous woman be sitting at a bar all alone? It

voice alluring. “I don’t know; it could be because I’m going through

his lips before he abruptly leaves Sophia alone at

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