#153 “I'm Here to Spice Things up!” Alexander arrived at Sophia’s office half an hour before their scheduled dinner, a vibrant bouquet of flowers in hand.
“You cearly,” laughed Sophia as soon as he appeared at her door.
“I was going to ceven earlier, but Laura remindedthat | have work,” Alexander replied playfully.
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇtSophia dropped the papers on her desk and eagerly went to greet him with a kiss. The moment their lips met, she couldn't help but let out a small moan.
“Careful, Johnson. If you keep going like this, we might not make it to the restaurant.” “Unfortunately, I'm so hungry we'll have to go.” “Con.” Alexander gently wrapped his arm around her waist, and together, they made their way to the exit.
Upon arriving at the restaurant and placing their orders, Alexander's gaze lingered on Sophia for a prolonged moment.
“What?” she asked, laughing.
“You know,” he said with a smirk, “I can’t believe how lucky | am to be here with someone as beautiful as you.” Sophia blushed, her laughter bubbling up. “Smooth talker! You've been watching too many romantic movies.” “Guilty as charged,” Alexander admitted with a grin.
Just as they were getting lost in each other's company, a familiar voice interrupted, “Well, well, well, if it isn't the lovebirds!” Alexander groaned, “Oh no, not now.” Michael stood there with a mischievous grin. Alexander couldn't resist the urge to roll his eyes.
Ignoring him, Michael pulled a chair from a nearby table and plopped down next to them. “Mind if | join?” Alexander sighed, “Michael, we're on a date.” “Exactly! And what's a date without a third wheel? I'm here to spice things up!” Sophia smirked, observing Alexander who was visibly trying to count to ten to rein in his temper. Sensing his frustration, she gently took his hand and gave it a reassuring squeeze.
“Long tno see,” Michael began.
Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm“There's a reason for that,” retorted an irritated Alexander.
“Yes, Alex, your behavior. We're brothers after all, and we never get together for family dinners.” Alexander snorted, and Michael's smug grin only grew wider.
“What do you want?” Alexander asked him bluntly.
“I was having dinner, and | saw you, and | immediately thought, why not annoy Alexander a little? It's honestly becoming my favorite thing to do.” “Find a hobby.” “That's better,” grinned Michael. ” How are you, Sophia? Unique news cfor you after London.” “Don’t remind me,” she pouted. “The important thing is that Megan got what she deserved.” “So it is. Now, Benjamin, and Alexander are the proud owners of Enlighten Press. It's going to be fun working together, isn’t it, Alex?” Alexander's jaw tightened at the mention of working together. Sophia interjected, attempting to lighten the mood, “Well, isn’t that just a family reunion dream ctrue?” Michael chuckled. “Oh, it's a dream, all right. A dream I'm going to savor every moment of.” Alexander shot a pointed look at Michael. “This doesn’t mean we're suddenly a happy family. | agreed to this partnership for business, not for cozy family dinners.” Michael leaned back in his chair, still wearing that annoying grin. “Who said anything about cozy family dinners? I'm just looking forward to seeing your uptight self struggle with a bit of chaos.
“A great start to your joint work,” Sophia said sarcastically. “I can’t imagine the rest.” “It will be an adventure for sure,” agreed Michael. “Alexander, Sophia still doesn’t have a drink. Cwithto the bar and let's get her something.” “There's a waiter,” Alexander said, confused.
“I promise I'll leave you two if you cwith me,” Michael offered. Sophia laughed when she saw how quickly Alexander got up from the table and followed Michael to the bar.
“You know, Alex,” Michael began casually, swirling the ice in his drink, ” I've been doing sdigging lately.” Alexander glanced at him skeptically.” Digging? You? That's a new one.” “Hey, I'm a man of many talents,” Michael replied with a wink. “But seriously, | found something interesting. A trace of dear old Dad.” Alexander's eyebrows furrowed. “Dad? What are you talking about?” “I'm talking about our charming father, “Michael said cryptically. “Seems like he’s up to something. And knowing him, it’s not baking cookies for the neighborhood block party.” Alexander, intrigued, leaned in. “Our dad? | thought you two weren't exactly on speaking terms.” “We're not,” Michael affirmed.
“So, what's the big revelation, Michael? Michael took a sip of his drink before leaning forward, his tone serious. “I overheard sshady conversations and caught wind of ssecretive meetings. | think he’s plotting something big, and it might involve you, Alex.” Alexander’s expression shifted from skepticism to concern. “Involving me? What could he possibly want?” Michael shrugged. “Who knows with Dad? Money, power, revenge - it could be any of those. | just thought you should be careful. He's not exactly the trustworthy type.” Alexander's jaw clenched, at the mention of their father reopening old wounds. “Why are you tellingthis now?” Michael leaned back again, a smirk returning to his face. “Call it a rare moment of brotherly concern. Plus, | figured it'd be more entertaining if you're on your toes.”