The news of Alexander and Emily's relationship spread across the entire city.
Every business magazine talked about them.
Social media was even worse.
Some people loved the story of the powerful CEO dating a simple girl.
Others were cruel.
Emily stared at her phone during lunch.
"Gold digger… attention seeker… office climber."
She sighed and put the phone down.
"I hate the internet."
Across the table, Alexander calmly drank his coffee.
"I told you not to read the comments."
Emily leaned back in her chair.
"Easy for you to say. People worship you online."
Alexander raised an eyebrow.
"Not everyone."
Emily looked at him.
"Does this bother you?"
Alexander shook his head.
"No."
Emily frowned.
"How?"
Alexander answered simply.
"I learned long ago that strangers' opinions don't matter."
Emily watched him carefully.
"You're stronger than me."
Alexander smirked slightly.
"Or just more experienced."
At that moment Emily noticed something.
Across the restaurant, a woman stood watching them.
Sophia.
Her expression was calm, but her eyes were sharp.
Emily whispered,
"She's here."
Alexander didn't even turn around.
"I know."
Emily blinked.
"You knew?"
Alexander nodded.
"She's been watching us for ten minutes."
Emily sighed.
"Your life is way too dramatic."
Alexander almost smiled.