Over the following weeks, they developed a rhythm. During the day, they maintained professionalism. In the evenings, they met as equals.
They cooked together, watched movies, talked for hours. James discovered Sophia’s humor and warmth. Sophia discovered his quiet generosity and hidden depth.
But the world did not remain silent.
When they appeared together at a public charity gala, the reaction was immediate and harsh. Cameras flashed. Headlines spread. The narrative was cruel.
James’s mother confronted them publicly, her voice sharp with disapproval.
“She’s your housekeeper.”
“This is Sophia Torres,” James said calmly. “The woman I love.”
The room fell silent.
Sophia felt the weight of every gaze, but she did not step back.
“I love your son,” she said quietly. “Not his money. Just him.”
The backlash was swift. The board threatened his position. Friends distanced themselves. Sophia faced judgment from both his world and her own.
One evening, James told her the truth.
“They’ve given me a choice. End things with you or lose the company.”
Sophia’s heart broke.
“Then you should choose the company.”
“No,” he said. “Without you, none of it matters.”
Part 3
The next day, James stood before the press with Sophia beside him.
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