#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.

suppose she is doing here?” Emily whispers to

gaze fixed on Sophia as she walks out the door, slows his steps and replies, “I have no idea. I am

him, he abruptly stops, his expression shifting to comprehension. He knows

crossfire, shifts uncomfortably, her eyes darting between the two men. “What

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

their seats at the 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

it,” Steven says,

bank to Emily’s, which, as I informed Ms. Johnson, cannot be reversed now. It was

Sophia, but he quickly reconsiders. The fallout would have devastating consequences for not only Stone Enterprises, but

the meeting with 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 completely

in his seat. Alexander’s anger is palpable. Steven hesitates again for a moment, weighing his options. He knows the consequences of revealing the truth and the

calculated decision, Steven responds, “Alexander. I assure you there

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

understands the severity of the situation and the

ease, “I want a letter drafted tonight to all employees of Stone Enterprises terminating all collaboration with Crimms’ bank.

*

meeting with Steven lingering in her mind. She sees Evelyn, seeking refuge from the storm brewing in her own life at home with her

eager to hear the details of the encounter with

portion of wine. She releases a heavy sigh, allowing the

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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