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.

ease and joined in her laughter. “I’ll admit she’s a bit clingy, though. Come on, let’s get

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

your help in this matter. It

look between Emily and Alexander. Sister, my ass, she thought bitterly. That woman is the reason why Alexander divorced me; I’m certain

mutually beneficial relationship, I

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

and send it to your office first thing in the morning. In the meantime, please enjoy

watches as Alexander and Emily disappear into the crowd. Emily hangs tightly onto Alexander’s arm,, and Alexander does not try to

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

guests. Sophia settles onto a barstool, her eyes scanning

like, lovely lady?” the bartender flirts, drawing a small smile to

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

bartender pours her 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

late twenties takes the seat next to her. He is dressed impeccably

melt any woman’s heart. “I’ll have what the

closer, his eyes twinkling with intrigue. “Quite the party,

resignation. The effects of the whiskey have rendered her immune to the emotional

an unbelievably gorgeous woman be

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

blinks momentarily, a fleeting smile gracing his lips before he abruptly leaves Sophia alone at the

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