#19 “It All Makes Sense Now.”
“I’m certain now that Alexander will transfer his deposit into Emily’s business,” Benjamin remarks as Sophia closes the door to her office, seeking comfort in the familiar surroundings.
Feeling a sense of reassurance in her sanctuary, Sophia settles herself and replies, “I agree. StoneTech Companies holds great significance for Alexander, so it’s no surprise he’s investing all his money there. But why?”
As they both find their places on the couch, Benjamin offers Sophia a glass of water and continues, “During the flight, I did some research. The Stones and the Williams have been family friends for generations. Their relationship runs deep.”
Sophia lets out a sigh, her memory triggered.
“Yes, he mentioned something about that when I first met Emily. Alexander offered her a position in his company as a way to give her a head start, to protect her,” I think were the words he used.”
Benjamin nods in agreement. “That may be true, but let me tell you, Sophia, while Alexander Stone is undoubtedly powerful, his family and even Emily’s family hold far greater influence. They are well-guarded by strong family alliances.”
A flicker of worry crosses Sophia’s face, catching Benjamin’s attention. He despises seeing her frightened and instinctively wraps his arm around her for support. Sophia briefly relishes in his comfort before sitting up again, determined. “I have to crack this puzzle.”
Meeting her gaze with sincerity, Benjamin assures her, “Sophia, I promise to assist you and do my best to shield you from Alexander’s harassment for as long as I’m in town.”
“Thank you, Ben,” Sophia answers gratefully. “You truly are an amazing friend.”
Although the word “friend” leaves a bittersweet pang in Benjamin’s heart, he persists, “But amidst all this, we should celebrate. You deserve congratulations for divorcing that jerk! You’re incredible, stunning, intelligent, and, quite frankly, perfect. He’s nothing but a wanker!”
Sophia’s lips curl into a smile, unsure whether to burst into laughter or embrace her dear friend tighter.
Sophia rises from her seat and walks over to her desk, where a neat stack of files awaits her attention. The sight of the organized paperwork serves as a stark reminder of the pressing workload she should be tackling, but her mind remains preoccupied and unable to focus.
“It all makes sense now, Ben,” Sophia remarks, gloom coloring her expression. “What does, my dear?” Ben inquires, sensing the answer from the melancholy that envelops her face.
“The truth is, Alexander’s abrupt withdrawal from Evelyn’s father’s bank, despite years of a highly profitable association, has nothing to do with Evelyn or me. It was solely for Emily’s benefit. Evelyn and I were mere casualties of a convoluted twist of fate. He was always going to do this for Emily.”
Turning towards Benjamin, baring her helpless heart, she whispers, “His love and devotion were always reserved exclusively for Emily.”
Benjamin springs up from his seat, eager to enfold Sophia in a comforting embrace, but Sophia’s anguish quickly transforms into embarrassment.
With a forced laugh, she holds Benjamin at arm’s length and admits, ” I’m such a fool! Utterly ridiculous! I feel, well, I feel stupid!”
Watching Sophia endure such pain tugs at Benjamin’s heartstrings. Desperate to uplift her spirits, he blurts out, ” Listen, Sophia Johnson, you are anything but a fool and absolutely not STUPID!.”
Cupping her chin tenderly, he lifts her gaze to meet his. “I have a brilliant idea, and you’re not allowed to refuse. Speaking of ridiculous, my parents are demanding that I attend a charity gala at The Crystal Chateau Ballroom, and you are coming with me as my date.”
Meanwhile, an air of irritation surrounds Alexander within the confines of his office. Seated behind his desk, Sophia Johnson occupies his every thought, refusing to relent.
Engaging in a one-sided conversation, he muses aloud, “Who is this woman? She possesses an intricate web of connections just as complex as mine, yet I only recently became aware of her existence. And it’s obvious that she shares a particular connection with Steven, even if he denies it.”
Laura enters his office, rapping gently on the door, interrupting his monologue. “Laura, you better bring me some good news,” Alexander grumbles, his impatience tangible.
“I’m afraid not, Mr. Stone. We’re still unable to pinpoint the whereabouts of your ex-wife,” Laura calmly reports. “ABSURD!” Alexander bellows.
“My ex-wife is a destitute woman with no meaningful relationships or associations. How can it be that you haven’t been able to locate her? It seems to me that either your efforts are lacking or your competence is sorely lacking.”
“With all due respect, Mr. Stone,” Laura begins, having grown accustomed to bearing the brunt of his outbursts over the years, even when they weren’t directed at her. She knows how to handle him.
“I don’t believe this is a matter of incompetence or insufficient effort. However, I completely understand if you feel inclined to assign someone else to this task.”
Taking a deep breath and recognizing his misdirected anger, Alexander responds, “No, Laura, absolutely not. I need you on this. Continue the search for my ex-wife. She can’t remain hidden indefinitely.”
“Of course,” Laura affirms, already approaching the door. “Oh, and one more thing, Laura,” Alexander interjects. “I want to reopen the investigation into Sophia Johnson.”
Laura raises an eyebrow, intrigued. ” Really? In that case, I believe it’s time to utilize our underground network to get a complete, comprehensively understand this woman.”
“I concur,” Alexander swiftly agrees.” Arrange a meeting with our most reliable informant without delay.”
“Perhaps we should also schedule a meeting with Ms. Johnson herself. We can frame it as a business or personal encounter, but we need to get face-to- face with her,” Laura suggests, jotting down notes on a pad.
Alexander turns toward Laura, his tone loaded with anger. “Why? What exactly do you think I want to do with her? Date her?”
Laura stops writing, her expression a mix of confusion and surprise. She stares at Alexander, momentarily taken aback.
“I don’t pay you to meddle in my personal affairs!” Alexander reprimands her sharply.
“I apologize, Mr. Stone. I merely thought… I mean, the way you looked at Ms. Johnson… never mind. I’m sorry, “Laura apologizes once again. Glancing at her phone as it chimes, Laura smiles and redirects her attention to Alexander.
“I just received confirmation that our informant will be attending the Crystal Chateau Ballroom for their annual
charity gala. I suggest you find your tuxedo promptly.”
