#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

slows his steps and replies, “I

expression shifting to comprehension. He knows precisely why Sophia Johnson was

her eyes darting between

Alexander, I understand your concerns, but

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

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

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

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

meeting with Ms. Johnson as a breach of trust? In fact, as far as I can tell, it seems like

options. He knows the consequences

assure you there was nothing inappropriate or revealing

leans back in his chair, his tone resolute. “Very well. Just remember, Steven, I will not tolerate further involvement or communication with Ms. Johnson. This incident

neutral. He understands the severity

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

*

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

both anxiety and curiosity. She’s eager to hear the details of

the couch, Sophia pours herself a generous portion of wine. She

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 for a veil of

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