CHAPTER FIFTY THREE – HIGH PRAISE

As they sat down to eat, an awkward silence fell between them. But for the first time in a long while, it didn't feel hostile. Just... uncertain. "This is actually good," Deonna admitted after a few bites. Logan's smile was genuine this time. "High praise indeed," he teased gently. As they ate, Deonna felt some of the day's tension begin to ebb away. It wasn't much – a home-cooked meal couldn't erase the mountain of issues between them – but it was something. A tiny crack in the wall of resentment they'd built. For just a moment, as Logan passed her the salt and their fingers brushed, Deonna allowed herself to wonder if maybe, just maybe, there was hope for them after all. The sleek glass doors of Maine Enterprises slid open, admitting a tall, well-dressed man with an air of confidence that immediately drew attention. Julian Reeves, the new client everyone had been buzzing about for weeks, had finally arrived. Deonna, clipboard in hand, stepped forward to greet him. "Mr. Reeves,