Sophia's Final Stand Against Xavier's Betrayal

The crystal chandeliers of Le Ciel cast a golden glow over the private dining room as I smoothed down my midnight blue dress—the one Xavier had complimented this morning. "You'll outshine everyone tonight, Sophia," he'd said, his eyes lingering on the way the fabric caught the light. Now, as I took my seat beside him at the head of the table, I felt a flutter of pride. This dinner with Takahashi Industries could secure Xavier's company's expansion into Asia—a deal we'd been working toward for months.

"The Takahashi representatives are impressed with your presentation," Xavier whispered, his breath warm against my ear. "Just keep smiling and looking gorgeous."

I nodded, feeling the weight of responsibility settle on my shoulders. My contribution to tonight went beyond being arm candy. I'd spent weeks perfecting the market analysis that had convinced Takahashi to even consider this meeting.

Helena appeared at Xavier's other side, her black dress a stark contrast to my blue. She'd styled her hair exactly like mine last week—the same loose waves I'd worn to the charity gala. I pushed the thought away. Coincidence. It had to be.

"Mr. Takahashi," Xavier extended his hand across the table. "I'm honored you chose to meet with us."

The elderly Japanese businessman nodded solemnly. "Your proposal shows promise, Mr. Collins. But business partnerships require trust."

"And trust requires celebration," Mr. Takahashi's son added, signaling a waiter who appeared with a silver tray of champagne flutes. "We toast to potential partnerships."

Glasses clinked around the table. I felt Xavier tense beside me.

"Perhaps water for Ms. Reed?" Helena suggested loudly, her voice carrying across the table. "I almost forgot—she has that severe alcohol allergy."

The room fell silent. Mr. Takahashi's eyebrows rose as he looked at me.

"I—yes, I do," I admitted, feeling heat rise to my cheeks.

Helena's eyes widened with exaggerated concern. "Oh! I'm so sorry. I shouldn't have mentioned it."

Xavier's jaw tightened. I could see the calculation in his eyes—the deal slipping away because of my medical condition.

"Sophia," he leaned close, his voice dropping to a harsh whisper. "We need this deal. Take one sip. Just enough to show respect."

"But Xavier, you know what happens—"

"Take. One. For the team." His fingers dug into my wrist under the table. "We've worked too hard for this."

I looked into his eyes—the same eyes that had once looked at me with such devotion when he pursued me 101 times. Now they were cold, determined.

Slowly, I reached for the glass. The crystal felt heavy in my hand.

"To new partnerships," I said weakly.

The champagne burned going down. Within minutes, my throat began to tighten. I felt my lips tingling, then going numb. The room tilted slightly as I gripped the edge of the table.

"Xavier," I gasped quietly. "I need—my EpiPen—"

But Xavier wasn't looking at me. Helena had placed a hand on her forehead, fanning herself dramatically.

"Are you alright?" Xavier asked her, concern etching his features.

"Just a