#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 they approach

gaze fixed on Sophia as she walks out the door, slows his steps and replies, “I have

as realization dawns upon him, he abruptly stops, his expression shifting

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

voice shaky,” Alexander, I understand your concerns, but I assure you

chair, his arms crossed tightly. “I find it hard to believe that this was a mere

it,” Steven says, trying

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

The fallout would have devastating consequences for not only Stone Enterprises, but for his own job as well. “Tell me, Steven,”

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

anger is palpable. Steven hesitates again for a moment, weighing his options. He knows the consequences of revealing

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

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

expression neutral. He understands the severity of

a letter drafted tonight to all employees of Stone Enterprises terminating all collaboration with

*

Sophia reaches her apartment, she 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

eyes shimmer with both anxiety and curiosity. She’s eager to hear the

generous portion of wine. She releases a heavy

almost afraid to ask how it went,” Evelyn ventures, her voice betraying her anticipation. Realizing that divulging the full extent of the conversation wouldn’t serve Evelyn well, Sophia decides to approach it cautiously, opting

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