The business dinner took place in one of the most luxurious hotels in the city.
Emily stepped out of the car slowly, staring up at the tall building covered in golden lights.
"This place looks expensive," she murmured.
Alexander walked beside her calmly.
"It is."
Emily adjusted the elegant dress Alexander's assistant had provided earlier. She still felt uncomfortable wearing something so fancy.
Inside the grand hall, businessmen and wealthy guests filled the room.
Everyone turned when Alexander entered.
Whispers spread instantly.
"That's Alexander Knight."
"He actually brought a woman with him."
Emily felt dozens of eyes on her.
She leaned closer to Alexander.
"Everyone is staring."
"They always do," Alexander replied calmly.
"But not at me!"
Alexander smirked slightly.
"That's because they're curious."
The two of them joined a table where several powerful investors sat.
The conversation quickly turned to business.
Emily listened quietly at first.
Until one older businessman spoke.
"Mr. Knight, you run your company like a military camp," the man laughed. "I heard your employees barely sleep."
The table laughed.
Emily frowned.
"That's not funny."
Everyone looked at her.
The businessman raised an eyebrow.
"And who might you be?"
Emily lifted her chin slightly.
"Someone who thinks employees deserve respect."
The room fell silent.
Alexander slowly turned to look at her.
No one ever challenged powerful businessmen like that.
But Emily didn't seem afraid.
Finally Alexander spoke.
"She's right."
The investors looked surprised.
Alexander continued calmly.
"People work better when they are respected."
Emily blinked.
She hadn't expected him to support her.
As dinner continued, Alexander leaned slightly toward her.
"You speak your mind too easily."
Emily shrugged.
"Honesty is easier than pretending."
Alexander looked at her thoughtfully.
"You're different."
Emily smiled.
"I hear that a lot."