Chapter 33

• "Because I can and I must. POLO is not merely a company; it is my family. Leon is not just my husband; he is my entire existence. I will not allow you to waltz in and destroy everything, simply because you have this notion that he wants a life with you. He was merely indulging a passing fancy, and when I present him with the choice, which do you think he will choose? You or POLO?" Sophia's satisfaction grows as she observes the woman's expression crumble. It is clear that she realizes just how much more significant the company is compared to their relationship. Sophia silently expresses gratitude that their affair is new enough to not leave a lasting impact on her future with Leon.
• Impatiently tapping her finger on her watch, Sophia rises to her feet, brushing off her suit as she locks eyes with the woman. She knows she has delivered her message for now and needs to give the woman time to consider her options. "You have twenty-four hours to decide. If I haven't heard from you by this time tomorrow, I will begin taking the necessary steps. You will witness your lover's downfall." Retrieving her business card from her purse, Sophia leans down and carefully places it on the table. Every deliberate action emphasizes the class divide between them, making it abundantly clear that the woman can never enter Sophia's world. The Hale family would devour her effortlessly.
• The woman cannot contain her tears as she watches Sophia stride across the room towards the hallway. Sophia pauses at the entrance, glancing back over her shoulder. She scowls at the ease with which the woman has been defeated, disappointed that Leon chose someone so incapable of fighting for their love. It saddens Sophia.