#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.

doing here?” Emily whispers to Alexander, curiosity in her voice as

gaze fixed on Sophia as she walks out the door, slows his steps and replies, “I have no idea. I am

abruptly stops, his expression shifting to comprehension. He knows precisely

composure all business. He meets Alexander’s piercing gaze. Emily, caught in the crossfire, shifts uncomfortably, her eyes darting between the two

understand your concerns, but I assure you

the table. Alexander leans back in his chair, his arms crossed tightly. “I find it hard to believe that this was a mere casual

is nothing more to it,” Steven says, trying to convenience himself as much as

around the movement of funds from the Crimms’ bank to Emily’s, which, as I informed Ms.

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

trust? In fact, as far as I can tell, it seems like an act of revealing insider information.

Steven hesitates again for a moment, weighing his options. He knows the consequences of revealing the truth and the potential fallout it could bring. But he also recognizes

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

his tone resolute.

expression neutral. He understands the severity of the situation and the weight

However, his wrath is starting to ease, “I want a letter drafted tonight to all employees of Stone Enterprises terminating all collaboration with Crimms’ bank. And be

*

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

both anxiety and curiosity. She’s eager to hear the details of the encounter with Steven, desperate for a glimmer of hope amid the

the couch, Sophia pours herself a generous portion of wine. She releases a heavy sigh, allowing the tension to escape before

the full extent of the conversation wouldn’t serve

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