"Mobbed by Matrimony" (wlw)

Chapter 13: The Apology

The two-hour ride had been long and uncomfortable for Sophia, but the shuttle finally reached its destination. The charity program was set up for the children of an orphanage, located outside the city amid a picturesque landscape of mountains and dense trees. As Sophia looked out at the serene surroundings, a wave of nostalgia washed over her, reminding her of her own hometown.

"Glad you all made it," Gabriel said with a welcoming smile as he greeted the staff, having arrived earlier.

"Please lend a hand with the preparations."

Gabriel was actively involved in the charity program at the orphanage. Having spent significant time in an orphanage himself before being adopted by the Luis and Samuel family, he was deeply committed to giving back.

Sophia, Christina, and Michelle were busy decorating the venue when Brad approached them.

"Are you ladies doing alright? Make sure the decorations turn out as beautiful as you are,"

Brad said, his gaze lingering uncomfortably on Sophia.

Sophia shifted uneasily, feeling the weight of his stare, but tried to focus on her task.

Christina and Michelle noticed the discomfort on Sophia's face.

"That guy is unbelievable," Christina said quietly.

"Don't fall for his tricks. He pulls that stunt with all the newbies."

Once the team completed setting up the venue, the children emerged eagerly. The staff handed out food, school supplies, and treats to each child. A colorful bounce castle was set up, providing hours of fun. As the kids played and enjoyed themselves, the staff mingled with the crowd, sharing in the festive atmosphere.

Sophia and Christina were playing with the kids when they noticed another black car pulling up. Julia and Elliott emerged from the back seat, followed shortly by Alex, who exited the front passenger seat.

"Wow, it's unusual for any of the other bosses to show up," Christina remarked, eyes still on the newcomers.

"Boss Gabriel is typically the only one who attends these events. Even though this charity was Boss Alex's late mother's idea, she wasn't as involved as Boss Gabriel is."

The three were warmly greeted by Gabriel and the head of the orphanage. They settled around a table and began to talk. Sophia found herself unable to look away from Alex, her gaze lingering on her as the conversation unfolded.

Exhausted from chasing the kids, Sophia took a seat, grabbing a glass of water and enjoying the breeze on her face. As she relaxed, she noticed a three-legged dog approaching, greeted warmly by Alex. The dog, brimming with energy and happiness, eagerly accepted Alex's affection.

"That's boss Alex's rescue dog," the head of the orphanage remarked, noticing Sophia's interest.

"Boss found him nearly lifeless after being hit by a car. She brought him here to provide companionship for the kids. Despite everything, the dog still remembers his master fondly."

Sophia's heart melted as she listened to the woman's story. Her gaze toward Alex and the dog was filled with warmth, and a genuine smile spread across her face as she observed the deep bond between them.

Brad's gaze had been lingering on Sophia, making her increasingly uncomfortable. Eager to escape his attention, she wandered around the area in search of some peace.

Sophia found solace in the serene view of the mountains and the clear sky, savoring the fresh air. Her tranquil moment was abruptly interrupted when she spotted Alex sitting against a large tree, lost in thought.

Sophia attempted to move quietly, but Alex noticed her presence. Instead of the usual intense scrutiny, Alex's gaze was calm and tinged with sadness. Sophia hesitated for a moment, then slowly walked over to the woman beneath the tree.

"I was just trying to find a quiet spot to relax for a bit."

Sophia said, hoping to make her presence more understandable.

Alex glanced over, her gaze distant and contemplative.

"Alright."

She replied, her tone suggesting she wasn't fully engaged but acknowledged the explanation.

Sophia slowly turned to walk away, giving Alex some space, when suddenly Alex spoke up again.

"I'm sorry."

She said, her voice carrying a hint of regret.

Sophia stopped, taken aback by the unexpected apology.

"I wasn't entirely myself that night. And I know that—"

Alex began to explain, but Sophia cut her off.

"That's fine! You don't need to explain."

She said, her tone reassuring.

Sophia noticed a shift in Alex's expression, her brow furrowing as she stared intently at her.

"Did you know it's rude to interrupt someone who's still speaking, smart mouth?"

Alex's voice was sharp, and Sophia's heart began to race.

"I'm so sorry, Alex. I didn't mean to cut you off. Please, I really am sorry."

Sophia stammered, her voice trembling as she tried to defuse the tension.

Alex's expression softened as her frown faded, signaling that she had calmed down.

"Not being myself that night isn't an excuse for hurting you," Alex said, her tone more subdued. "So if you want to take revenge, here."

She handed a knife to Sophia, her gesture both strange and unsettling, inviting her to exact retribution.

Sophia stared, dumbfounded by Alex's unexpected gesture.

"Does she want me to stab her?!?"

She thought, bewildered.

"No, Alex! Are you crazy? I said it's fine!"

She exclaimed, her voice rising with panic as she looked at the knife in Alex's hand. Despite the hurt Alex had caused, Sophia couldn't bring herself to harm her.

"Alright then."

Alex said quietly, her gaze fixed downward as she rubbed her temples.

Sophia gave her a sympathetic glance. "I'll give you some space for now," she said softly.

Without another word, she turned and headed back to the charity venue, leaving Alex to her thoughts.

The charity program concluded successfully. As the crowd began to disperse and pack up, Alex overheard Christina and Michelle discussing Sophia's visible discomfort around Brad, who was now visibly drunk.

"Team, it's time to head back to the shuttle. Intern, front seat."

Brad commanded, his tone firm but slurred.

"Mr. Welton, I'd like each department's intern to stay and help with the cleanup, including your intern," Alex countered, her displeasure evident. "The rest of you may leave."

Brad, though clearly disappointed, complied with a resigned nod.

"Very well, boss."

Sophia stepped out of the passenger seat and watched the shuttle pull away from the venue. As she scanned the area, she was unable to spot any interns.

"Get in the car. We're leaving in ten minutes."

Alex directed, noting Sophia's confusion. Despite her earlier decision for interns to stay and clean up, Sophia followed Alex's command without protest.