Alexander, unable to resist the temptation, approaches Sophia and Evelyn at the café patio. With a half-joking, half-intimidating tone, he addresses them. "Well, well, well, if it isn't the two ladies discussing their disdain for a certain someone," Alexander remarks, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "I couldn't help but overhear your conversation. Evelyn, wasn't it? I must say, I'm quite intrigued by your strong opinions about this 'egotistical, arrogant, money-hungry man." Evelyn's eyes widen as she recognizes Alexander. She stammers, "Oh... uh... Mr. Stone, I didn't realize it was you. It was all in good fun, you know, just venting with Sophia here." Sophia, maintaining her composure, leans back in her chair and smirks. "You should be flattered, Alexander. I am sure you know that Evelyn's father owns a bank that heavily relies on Stone Enterprises. I'm sure he'd be interested to hear your reaction to his daughter's colorful assessment of men." Alexander chuckles, his gaze alt

Before reaching the door, Sophia's determined footsteps come to a halt. With a sense of urgency, she walks back to Steven, who greets her with a curious smile. "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 sa

As Sophia stands in front of her apartment building, watching Alexander starting to walk into his, her heart jumps as he turns and looks directly at her. Frozen with whether or not to acknowledge him or ignore him, he decides for her. "Sophia!" Alexander shouts, dodging cars like a player in his own version of Frogger to cross the busy street. When he finally reached her, Sophia couldn't help but smile. "Mr. Stone, I had no idea we were neighbors," she said, attempting a flirty laugh that came out more as an awkward chuckle. "It would appear so," Alexander replied, pulling out her green Gucci Marmont card case wallet from his suit pocket. "I believe this belongs to you. I found it at Bistro 45 last night. I was going to have it messengered over to you today, but this takes something off my to-do list." Alexander hands Sophia the wallet and turns to leave. Nervously, she places her hand on his shoulder, stopping him. Filled with anxiety, she musters the courage to ask, "Mr. Stone, I

The maître d' gracefully approached, trailed closely by Emily. He swiftly arranged the table adjacent to Sophia's, meticulously placing the silverware and pulling out the chairs. Reluctantly, Alexander moved towards the table, his eyes shooting daggers at Emily. Sophia let out a weary sigh, gathering her belongings and taking a seat at the new arrangement, while Benjamin settled in next to her, a mischievous grin still playing on his lips. Once everyone was settled, Steven cleared his throat politely and smiled. "I really feel we must apologize. I hope we're not intruding on your date, Ms. Johnson." Sophia choked on her wine for a moment, then managed a smile. "Oh, no. Benjamin is my dear friend. We actually grew up together in Europe. You won't find a kinder and more genuine person than Benjamin Thompson," Sophia said, shooting a cold glance at Alexander. "Thompson, Ben Thompson," Alexander mused aloud. "I've heard of your remarkable achievements across the pond. Impressive write

This year, the esteemed Crystal Chateau Ballroom plays host to the highly anticipated annual charity gala organized by Emily's illustrious family. Emily's mother, Barbara, a respected figure in the banking world, and her father, Daniel, a distinguished senator, have long been recognized as pillars of philanthropy in the community.Their decision to select the Crystal Chateau Ballroom as the venue reflects their tireless commitment to hosting events of unparalleled grandeur reserved exclusively for the crème de la crème of society. The ballroom's reputation as a haven of luxury and refinement aligns seamlessly with the esteemed status of the distinguished guests in attendance.As Emily and Alexander make their grand entrance, the sudden hush at various tables rippled across the room like a gentle wave, drawing everyone's attention to a couple making their entrance."That's Alexander Stone," murmured a man in awe, his voice barely audible above the murmur of the crowd.Alexander Stone,