#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.

you suppose she is doing here?” Emily whispers to Alexander, curiosity in her voice as

and replies, “I have no idea. I am just as surprised as you are to see

as realization dawns upon him, he abruptly stops, his expression shifting to comprehension. He knows precisely

her eyes darting between the two men. “What in the hell were you doing here

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

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

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

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

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

Ms. Johnson as a breach of trust? In fact, as far as I can tell, it seems like an act of revealing insider information. It is

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

“Alexander. I assure you there was nothing inappropriate or

deception. Satisfied for now, he leans back in his chair, his tone resolute. “Very well. Just remember, Steven, I will not tolerate further

He understands the severity of the situation and the weight of

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

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

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

anticipation. Realizing that divulging the full

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