#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.

do you suppose she is doing here?” Emily whispers to Alexander, curiosity in her voice as

fixed on Sophia as she walks out the door, slows his steps and replies, “I have no idea. I am just as surprised as you are to see

expression shifting to comprehension. He knows

piercing gaze. Emily, caught in the crossfire, shifts uncomfortably, her eyes darting between the

his voice shaky,” Alexander, I understand your concerns, but

his arms crossed tightly. “I find it hard to believe that this was a mere casual discussion. There must be

is nothing more to it,” Steven says, trying

Crimms’ bank to Emily’s, which, as I informed Ms. Johnson, cannot be reversed now.

a moment Steven considers telling Alexander the true identity of Sophia, but he quickly reconsiders. The fallout would have devastating consequences for not only Stone Enterprises,

the meeting with Ms. Johnson as a breach of trust? In fact, as far as

Steven hesitates again for a moment, weighing his options. He knows

Steven responds, “Alexander. I assure you there was nothing

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

the severity of the situation and the weight of Alexander’s

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

*

feels the weight of her meeting with Steven lingering in her mind. She sees Evelyn, seeking refuge from the storm brewing in her own life at home with her parents, perched on the plush couch, savoring the rich crimson liquid in

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

a generous portion of wine. She

went,” Evelyn ventures, her voice betraying her anticipation. Realizing that divulging the full extent of the

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