#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.

to Alexander, curiosity

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

as realization dawns upon him, he abruptly stops, his expression shifting

uncomfortably, her eyes darting between the two men. “What in the hell were you doing here with Sophia Johnson?” Alexander angrily

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

of abating as the trio takes their seats at the table. Alexander leans back in his chair, his arms crossed tightly.

Stone, there is nothing more to it,” Steven

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

The fallout would have devastating consequences for not only Stone Enterprises, but for his own job as well. “Tell me, Steven,” Alexander’s

trust? In fact, as far

shifts uncomfortably 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

“Alexander. I assure you

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

nods, his expression neutral. He understands the severity of

letter drafted tonight to all employees of Stone Enterprises terminating all collaboration with Crimms’ bank. And

*

mind. She sees Evelyn, seeking refuge from the storm brewing in her own life at

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 amid the

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

ask how it went,” Evelyn ventures, her voice betraying her anticipation. Realizing that divulging the full extent of

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