"Macallan neat," Alexander gruffly says to the bartender as soon as he reaches the bar. He takes the empty seat next to the informant, Kyle Vennillia, and impatiently awaits his Scotch, drumming his fingers on the bar top."That was quite the performance," Kyle remarks, breaking the silence. "Who would have thought a woman who looks like that could play so well."Taking a long sip of his Scotch, Alexander turns to Kyle with a hint of irritation. "I'm Alexander Stone." Alex does not extend his hand for a handshake."Yes, Mr. Stone, I know who you are. Laura told me you needed to speak with me urgently," Kyle replies calmly.Alexander shows no sign of relaxing, even after finishing his drink in one long gulp. He sternly says, "Well, she is mistaken. I never NEED anything. But I do have a matter I would like to discuss with you.""Of course, Alex. Can I call you Alex?" Kyle asks, trying to lighten the tense atmosphere."No," Alexander replies curtly, making it clear that he prefers a mor
Sophia tiredly looks around the room for Benjamin. It has been a long evening, and she is ready to return to her apartment, have a glass of red wine, and snuggle up in bed. Not seeing Benjamin, she orders another glass of champagne from the bar and takes the corner seat."Hello," a voice says from a man taking the seat next to her. "I would offer to buy your drink, but these shindigs with their open bar really damage my pick-up lines." The man laughs, obviously delighted with his joke.Sophia turns to him, offers a polite but dismissive smile, and pulls out her phone to check emails.The man does not take the hint and continues, "You don't need to be intimidated. I am just like any other guy.""Excuse me?" Sophia questions.Moving closer to Sophia, the man chuckles, "Yes, I am THAT Davis Reeceman.""Who?" Sophia asks, feigning ignorance. She, of course, has heard of the extremely popular celebrity but is not about to humor his arrogance."Oh, come on. I'm Davis Reeceman, star of the a
"I saw your performance tonight," Michael says, a warm smile crossing his face as he sits beside Sophia. "It was quite impressive."The compliment makes Sophia slightly blush, but she musters a grateful smile and replies, "Thank you.""I was immediately impressed by the way you can navigate the fingerboard with such fluidity, and your bowing technique is equally impressive," Michael continues.Surprised by his knowledge of violin playing techniques, Sophia asks, "Really? Do you play?"He chuckles softly. "No, but I have spent a great deal of time in Prague, which I am sure you know is where the Smetana Hall is."Sophia nods, impressed that he knows the prestigious classical music festivals held there. "Yes, I've attended some of those concerts before," she admits.Their conversation flows, and time flies by as they talk about music and their shared fondness for classical performances. But as the minutes pass, Sophia notices that the once bustling ballroom is gradually emptying, and th
Sophia briefly glances at Alexander, attempting to read his emotions, but her main focus remains on the driver navigating the challenging road and weather conditions. With a polite nod, she refrains from probing further or pushing for more information.Alexander takes a moment to reflect, seemingly contemplating his choice of words about Michael. However, as he begins to speak, his words flow resolutely. "Let me be clear, Michael is far from being a kind individual," he confesses, his words deliberate and unwavering. "We harbor unresolved conflicts from our history. I strongly advise you to keep your distance from him." Recognizing the potential impact of his authoritative delivery, he swiftly interjects, "To put it mildly, I strongly urge you to stay away from him. Believe me when I say it is genuinely in your best interest."Sophia shifts her attention from the road to Alexander, offering him a reassuring smile. However, deep down, she knows she won't be heeding his advice. He is
Seeing that Sophia is still looking at him with contempt, Alexander tries reassuring her, "I guarantee you I was just joking. I will not say a word to anyone."Sophia nods her head in acknowledgment, but the apprehension still lingers in her eyes. As she starts to turn her gaze out the window, Alexander presses on. "Look, I know that you don't like me. That's very obvious."Shifting back to face him, Sophia holds his gaze, her expression guarded. She remains silent, waiting for him to continue."Well, at least you're not denying it," Alexander remarks softly. "Can you at least tell me what I did to deserve such distaste from you?"Sophia chuckles, a mix of exasperation and amusement in her voice. "Are you serious?" she asks incredulously."Yes," Alexander replies sincerely. "I feel like I deserve an explanation for all the animosity."Sophia takes a moment to collect her thoughts before responding, her tone becoming more assertive. "You know that Evelyn Crimms is my best friend," she
The soft morning light filters into the room, gently coaxing Sophia awake in Alexander's apartment. The previous night's events still echo in her thoughts as she opens her eyes, taking in her surroundings within the guest room's comforting embrace.As the remnants of sleep recede, Sophia's senses come alive to the peculiar quietness of the apartment. She wonders where Alexander might be. With a quiet and curious determination, she softly opens the bedroom door and peers into the hallway, calling his name with a gentle tone."Alexander?" she murmurs, her voice echoing in the space. The scent of sizzling bacon suddenly wafts towards her, pulling her in a specific direction. She follows the mouthwatering aroma, allowing it to guide her toward the source.The kitchen greets her with the promise of a delicious morning meal. A meticulously arranged breakfast is laid out on the granite countertop—scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and fresh fruit presented on a plate. Adjacent to the plate lies a
Previous encounters still resonate at the office as Sophia delves into her work. Her focus shifts as she encounters a new challenge—a difficult client who was recommended by none other than Emily's mother. The client, Mr. Thompson, seeks her expertise to handle a significant business merger and acquisition case. Despite the weight of her previous interactions with Emily and her mother, Sophia's commitment to her profession remains steadfast. She takes on the case, determined to separate her personal feelings from her legal responsibilities.The hours of the day blend into one another as Sophia meticulously prepares for the crucial meeting. The stakes are high, and the weight of the impending negotiations rests heavily on her shoulders. When the appointed time arrives, Sophia dons her professional demeanor and meets Mr. Thompson at his office. With a practiced air of confidence, they discuss the strategy for the upcoming meeting."Mr. Thompson," Sophia begins," we need to be thoroug
After parting ways with Michael, Sophia continued her day at the hotel. Little did she know, Michael's encounter with her had an unexpected outcome.Watching Sophia walk away, Michael found himself crossing paths with Emily Williams within the bustling corridors of the hotel. A smile crosses his lips.He couldn't help but seize the moment to engage in some playful banter, his tone flippant as he teased her."Well, well, if it isn't Alexander's girlfriend. Waiting here for a romantic date, I assume?" Michael says as she slides up alongside Emily.Emily's cheeks flushed a faint shade of pink, a mix of embarrassment and surprise sweeping over her features.Stammering, Emily replies, "I—what? No, I'm not his girlfriend. I'm here for something else entirely."Michael's eyes sparkled mischievously, the bouquet of vibrant flowers in his hand that Sophia had rejected. He presents it with a dramatic flourish.With a grin, Micheal replies, "Ah, so you're saying you're not here to sweep him off