Behind Closed Doors: The Secret Flirt of Henry and Orawee --- Claire's stiletto heels clicked against the marble floor of the upscale restaurant as she led Sophie to their table. Sophie, just 19 years old, couldn't help but feel overwhelmed by her mother's imposing presence. At 34, Claire still had the hourglass figure of a goddess, with voluptuous breasts and hips that could make any man weak in the knees. But her beauty was marred by her cruel and controlling personality. As they sat down, Claire surveyed the room with a critical eye. Look at these pathetic losers, she sneered, gesturing to the other diners. They can't even keep their wives satisfied. That's why they all come here, to try and find something new to excite them. Sophie forced a smile, not wanting to engage in her mother's usual playful insults. She had long ago learned that it was best to just let Claire's barbs roll off her back. Just then, a waiter approached their table. Good evening, ladies. May I take your order? Claire scanned the wine list, her red lips pursed in concentration. We'll have a bottle of the most expensive champagne you have, she declared, handing the list back to the waiter. Sophie sighed inwardly. She knew that her mother was trying to impress someone, but she had no idea who it could be. Claire had arranged for Sophie to marry Henry, the heir to a failing family business, in order to save it. But as far as Sophie knew, Henry was still in Thailand, dealing with the fallout of his father's death and his mother's gambling addiction. As the waiter poured their champagne, Claire's eyes landed on a handsome man sitting at the bar. He was dressed in a sharp suit, his dark hair slicked back, and he was laughing at something the bartender had said. Claire's eyes narrowed. I see someone I know, she said, standing up. Excuse me, Sophie. I'll be right back. Sophie watched as her mother sashayed over to the man, her hips swaying hypnotically. She couldn't help but feel a twinge of jealousy. Claire always seemed to know how to get what she wanted, whether it was a business deal or a man's attention. As Sophie sat alone at the table, she couldn't help but wonder what Henry was doing at that moment. She had only met him once, when Claire had introduced them and told him that they were to be married. He had been polite, but distant, and Sophie had felt a shiver of unease. Just then, a voice broke through her thoughts. Excuse me, miss. Is this seat taken? Sophie looked up to see the handsome man from the bar standing beside her. She felt her cheeks flush. No, it's not, she stammered. The man smiled, his white teeth gleaming. Mind if I join you? Sophie hesitated for a moment, then nodded. She couldn't help but be drawn to his charisma. As they chatted, Sophie learned that the man's name was Henry. She couldn't believe it. This was the man she was supposed to marry. But as they talked, she couldn't deny the spark of attraction between them. Henry leaned in closer, his voice low. I have to be honest with you, Sophie. I'm not sure I can go through with this marriage. My family's business is on the verge of collapse, and I don't know if I can provide for a wife. Sophie's heart sank. She had hoped that Henry would be different from the other men in her life, but it seemed that he was just as weak. Just then, Claire returned to the table. She took one look at Henry and Sophie, her eyes narrowing. What's going on here? she demanded. Henry stood up, his shoulders squared. I was just explaining to Sophie that I don't think I can go through with the marriage. My family's business is in trouble, and I don't want to drag her down with me. Claire's face turned red with anger. You ungrateful bastard! I arranged this marriage for my own personal gain, and you're going to go through with it, whether you like it or not! Henry stood his ground. I'm sorry, Claire. But I can't do it. I have to think about my own future. Claire's eyes flashed. Fine. But don't think you can just walk away from this without consequences. As Henry left the restaurant, Sophie couldn't help but feel a sense of relief. Maybe her life wouldn't be as controlled and abusive as it had been with her mother. But as she looked at Claire, she knew that she was in for a fight. Her mother was not one to back down easily.