Later that evening, Emily stayed late finishing reports.
As she stepped out of the building, she noticed someone standing across the street.
Sophia.
Sophia watched her quietly.
Emily walked toward her cautiously.
"Are you following me?"
Sophia smiled.
"Just observing."
Emily frowned.
"That's creepy."
Sophia tilted her head.
"You really don't understand your situation."
Emily crossed her arms.
"Then explain it."
Sophia's eyes darkened.
"You're standing next to one of the most powerful men in the city."
Emily shrugged.
"He's my boss."
Sophia laughed softly.
"That's what you think."
Emily felt irritation rising.
"What do you want from me?"
Sophia stepped closer.
"I want to see how long you survive."
Emily froze.
Sophia's smile returned.
"Because once Alexander becomes interested in someone…"
Her voice dropped to a whisper.
"The whole world starts watching."
Then Sophia walked away into the night.
Leaving Emily standing alone under the streetlights.
And for the first time—
Emily felt something dangerous approaching.