Behind Closed Doors: The Secret Affair of Sophie and Mr. Henry --- Claire scrutinized her reflection in the full-length mirror, her piercing blue eyes scanning every inch of her voluptuous figure. She turned to the side, admiring her hourglass shape, the curves of her ample bosom and hips on full display in the form-fitting red dress she had chosen for the evening. She smirked, satisfied with what she saw. At thirty-four years old, she still had the ability to turn heads, and she made sure to use it to her advantage. She heard the front door open and close, followed by the sound of Sophie's footsteps as she made her way up the stairs. Claire called out to her, her voice sharp and commanding. Sophie, get in here! I want to go over the final details for the engagement party. Sophie entered the room, her shoulders slumped and her eyes downcast. She was a striking contrast to her mother, with her delicate features and petite frame. Claire often remarked that Sophie took after her father, which was always said with a sneer. Sophie's father had left Claire for another woman, and Claire had never let Sophie forget it. Yes, Mother, Sophie replied, her voice barely above a whisper. Claire rolled her eyes. For God's sake, stand up straight. You're going to be a married woman soon. You need to start acting like one. Sophie stood up straighter, her hands clenched into fists at her sides. I am aware, Mother. I am looking forward to it. Claire raised an eyebrow. Really? You seem less than thrilled. Sophie took a deep breath. I am thrilled, Mother. I am just...nervous. I want everything to be perfect for Henry. Claire scoffed. Henry? You're marrying him for his family's business, not because you're in love with him. Sophie's face fell. I know that, Mother. But I still want to make him happy. Claire sighed. Fine. Let's go over the details. The engagement party is in two days, and I want everything to be perfect. The two women went over the final details for the engagement party, with Claire dictating every aspect of the event. Sophie listened quietly, nodding along and making notes. Claire was a force to be reckoned with, and Sophie had long since learned that it was easier to just do as she was told. After they had gone over everything, Claire dismissed Sophie with a wave of her hand. That's all for now. I'll see you at the party. Sophie left the room, closing the door behind her with a soft click. Claire turned back to the mirror, admiring her reflection once again. She couldn't wait for the party, not just for the opportunity to show off her power and influence, but also for the chance to size up Henry and make sure he was worthy of her daughter. --- Henry sat at the bar, nursing a glass of whiskey. He had always loved the taste of whiskey, the way it burned as it went down his throat. It was a welcome distraction from the stress of his family's failing business. His father had died unexpectedly, and his mother had taken to gambling to cope with her grief. The family's fortune was dwindling, and Henry was desperate to find a way to save it. That was why he had agreed to marry Sophie. Claire, Sophie's mother, had approached him with a proposition: she would use her influence and connections to help save his family's business if he agreed to marry Sophie. It was a tempting offer, one that Henry couldn't refuse. He had only met Sophie a handful of times, but he had to admit that she was a beautiful woman. She had long, dark hair and delicate features, with a quiet and reserved demeanor. Henry couldn't help but feel a twinge of guilt as he thought about the arrangement. Sophie deserved better than to be used as a pawn in her mother's games. But Henry couldn't deny the attraction he felt towards her. He had always had a weakness for beautiful women, and Sophie was no exception. He couldn't help but wonder what she was like in bed, what it would be like to run his hands over her smooth skin and feel her body respond to his touch. He shook his head, banishing the thoughts from his mind. He couldn't afford to get distracted. He had a business to save, and he couldn't let his desires get in the way. But as he finished his drink and prepared to leave, he couldn't help but glance towards the back of the bar, where he knew Sophie's friend Orawee worked. She was a fiery and independent woman, with a sharp tongue and a quick wit. Henry couldn't help but be drawn to her, and he found himself making his way towards her, unable to resist the pull. Well, well, well, if it isn't Henry, Orawee said, a playful smile on her lips. What brings you to my humble establishment? Henry grinned. Just needed a drink. And maybe a little company. Orawee raised an eyebrow. Oh, really? And who might this company be? Henry leaned in closer, his voice low. You, of course. I can't resist your charms. Orawee laughed. You're such a flirt, Henry. But I'm afraid I'm not interested. I have a rule: no fraternizing with the customers. Henry pouted. But I'm not just any customer. I'm a friend of Sophie's. Orawee rolled her eyes. That doesn't mean anything. Sophie's a sweet girl, but she doesn't know what she's getting herself into with you. Henry's eyes narrowed. What do you mean by that? Orawee leaned in closer, her voice barely above a whisper. I mean that Sophie deserves better than to be used as a pawn in her mother's games. And I mean that you're a handsome man, but you're not fooling anyone. We all know you're only marrying Sophie for her family's business. Henry's face fell. He had been found out. He opened his mouth to protest, but Orawee held up a hand to stop him. Don't bother denying it. I know it's true. But that doesn't mean we can't still have a little fun, does it? Henry's eyes lit up. He couldn't resist the temptation. He nodded, and Orawee led him to a secluded corner of the bar. And that was how it all began, the secret affair between Henry and Orawee. A passionate and intense relationship that neither of them could resist, despite the fact that they both knew it was wrong.