CHAPTER 156: MARIE IS BACK IN CHICAGO

DAMIAN "Attention, passengers, we are beginning our descent into California. Please make sure your seatbelts are fastened and tray tables are in their upright positions." The announcement echoed through the cabin as the plane started its final approach. Damian barely registered the words, his mind elsewhere. "Finally," Julia exhaled, stretching in her seat. "I can't wait to get out of this tin can. God, I'm starving. What about you?" Damian leaned back, his Adam's apple bobbing as he sighed. "Yeah, sure. Let's grab something after we settle in." As soon as the plane touched down, he turned on his phone, and a call came in. "Yeah, I'll meet you at the hotel tonight," Damian spoke into his phone, his voice low but firm. The investor on the other end was asking about the logistics of their evening meeting. Damian rubbed his temples, his thoughts full of conflicting emotions, but his business voice remained steady. "Seven works for me. I'll send over the documents once we land," he a