#14 “This Incident Ends Here.”

Before reaching the door, Sophia’s determined footsteps come to a halt. With a sense of urgency, she walks back to Steven, who curious smile. greets her with a “One more thing, Mr. Mhyler,” she says.

Steven leans in attentively. “Of course, go ahead.’

“It is crucial that you do not mention to Mr. Stone that we met today,” Sophia asserts, her eyes locked with Steven’s. ” And please, do not reveal my true identity to him. I am warning you it would be bad for everyone!”

Confused by her request, Steven raises an eyebrow. “Ms. Johnson, you are putting me in a very tricky situation.”

Sophia leans closer, her voice almost a whisper, “I realize that Mr. Mhyler, and I am sorry about that; however the best decision you can make is to stay silent.” “But, Ms. Johnson…”

Sophia cuts him off, “Steven, it is imperative that this stays between you and me. This is not a request.”

Uncomfortable with the demand, but realizing he does not have a choice. Steven relectuanly replies, “Your secret is safe with me.”

Sophia nods gratefully. She turns again towards the door, eager to leave. The once-crowded lobby of the restaurant has become even more packed with patrons, making it difficult to navigate. In her haste, she overlooks Alexander and Emily as they make their way through the crowd, their eyes fixed on her.

whispers to Alexander, curiosity

steps and replies,

expression shifting to comprehension. He knows

He meets Alexander’s piercing gaze. Emily, caught in the crossfire, shifts uncomfortably, her eyes darting between the two men. “What in the hell were you

concerns, but I assure you it is nothing

their seats at the table. Alexander leans back in his chair, his arms crossed tightly. “I find

Stone, there is nothing more to it,” Steven says, trying to

as

Sophia, but he quickly reconsiders. The fallout would have devastating consequences for not only Stone Enterprises, but for his

I not consider the meeting with Ms. Johnson as a breach of trust? In fact, as far as I can tell, it seems like

hesitates again for a moment, weighing his options. He knows the consequences of revealing the truth and the

decision, Steven responds, “Alexander. I assure you there was nothing inappropriate or revealing about

leans back in his chair, his tone resolute. “Very well. Just remember, Steven, I will not tolerate further involvement or communication

severity of the situation and the weight of

drafted tonight to all employees of Stone Enterprises terminating all collaboration with Crimms’ bank. And be sure to CC the bank

*

in her mind. She sees Evelyn, seeking refuge from the storm brewing in her

shimmer with both anxiety and curiosity. She’s eager to hear the details of the encounter with Steven,

herself a generous portion of wine. She releases a heavy sigh, allowing the tension to escape before venturing into

that divulging the full extent of the conversation wouldn’t serve Evelyn well, Sophia decides to approach it cautiously, opting for a veil of

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