#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,

she walks out the door, slows his steps and replies,

his expression shifting to comprehension. He

her eyes darting between the two men. “What in the hell were you doing here with Sophia Johnson?”

his voice shaky,” Alexander, I understand your concerns, but I assure you it is nothing

in his chair, his arms crossed

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

movement of funds from the Crimms’ bank to Emily’s, which, as I informed Ms. Johnson, cannot be

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

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

anger is palpable. 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

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

searching for any signs of deception. Satisfied for now, he leans back in his chair, his tone resolute. “Very well. Just

He understands the severity

want a letter drafted tonight to all employees of Stone Enterprises terminating all

*

the storm brewing in her own life at home with her parents, perched on the plush couch,

hear the details

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

almost afraid to ask how it went,” Evelyn ventures, her voice betraying her anticipation. Realizing that divulging the full

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