CHAPTER SEVENTY ONE - BENEATH THE SURFACE

Sophia Rivers sipped her martini, her eyes scanning the dimly lit club. The pulsing music and flashing lights created the perfect cover for her clandestine meeting. She spotted her target at the bar – Marco Vernetti, CEO of World Haven Enterprises. With a predatory smile, she made her approach. "Mr. Vernetti," Sophia purred, sliding onto the stool next to him. "Fancy meeting you here." Marco turned, his eyes widening in recognition. "Ms. Rivers. This is... unexpected." Sophia leaned in, her perfume wafting between them. "Oh, I don't believe in coincidences, Marco. May I call you Marco?" He nodded, intrigued. "Only if I can call you Sophia." "Perfect," she smiled, raising her glass. "To new... partnerships." As they clinked glasses, Sophia knew she had him hooked. The night progressed, filled with flirtatious banter and strategic touches. By the time they stumbled into Marco's penthouse, Sophia had laid the groundwork for her plan. In the afterglow of their encounter, Sophia trac