#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.

she is 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

abruptly stops, his expression shifting to

her eyes

understand your concerns, but I assure you it is nothing of

anger shows no signs of abating as the trio takes their seats at the table. Alexander leans back in his chair, his arms crossed tightly. “I find it hard to believe that this was a

you, Mr. Stone, there is nothing more to it,” Steven says, trying to convenience himself

the Crimms’ bank to Emily’s, which, as I informed Ms.

Sophia, but he quickly reconsiders. The fallout would have devastating consequences for not only Stone Enterprises, but for his own job as well. “Tell me, Steven,” Alexander’s voice drips

breach of trust? In fact, as far as I can tell, it seems like an

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

a calculated decision, Steven responds, “Alexander. I assure you

gaze intensifies, searching for any signs of deception. Satisfied for now, he leans back in his chair, his tone resolute.

understands the severity of the situation and the

more thing Steven,” Alexander continues. 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 sure to CC the bank on it

*

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

her gaze towards Sophia, Evelyn’s eyes shimmer with both anxiety and curiosity. She’s eager to hear the details of the encounter with Steven, desperate

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

anticipation. Realizing that divulging the full extent of the conversation wouldn’t serve Evelyn

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