#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.

here?” Emily whispers to

fixed on Sophia as she walks out the door, slows his steps and replies, “I

abruptly stops, his expression shifting to comprehension. He knows precisely why

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

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

seats at the table. Alexander leans back in his chair, his arms crossed tightly. “I

nothing more to it,” Steven says, trying to convenience himself as much as

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

moment Steven 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

In fact, as far as I can tell, it seems like an act of revealing insider information. It is

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

you there

for now, he leans back in his chair, his tone resolute. “Very

severity of

a letter drafted tonight to all employees of

*

Sophia reaches her apartment, she feels the weight of her meeting with Steven lingering in her mind. She sees Evelyn, seeking refuge from the storm brewing in her

both anxiety and curiosity. She’s eager to hear the details of the encounter with Steven, desperate for a glimmer

Evelyn on the couch, Sophia pours herself a generous portion of wine. She releases a heavy sigh, allowing

anticipation. Realizing that divulging the full extent

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