#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.

whispers to

door, slows his steps and replies, “I have no idea. I am just

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 in the hell were you doing here with Sophia Johnson?” Alexander

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

at the table. Alexander leans back in his chair, his arms crossed tightly. “I find it hard to believe

you, Mr. Stone, there is nothing more to it,”

the Crimms’ bank to Emily’s, which, as I informed Ms. Johnson, cannot be reversed now. It was a brief and

considers telling Alexander the true identity of 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 with

as far as I can

hesitates again for a moment, weighing his options. He knows the consequences of revealing the truth and the potential

“Alexander. I assure you there was nothing inappropriate or revealing about the

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

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

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

*

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

eager to hear the details of the encounter with Steven, desperate for a glimmer of hope amid

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

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

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