Chapter 54: A Heartfelt Reunion

The air was filled with the aroma of roasted vegetables and herbs as I put the finishing touches on the table. Candles flickered softly, casting a warm, inviting glow over the dinner setup. I wanted everything to be perfect for tonight. Jason and I had talked about the tension with Mike and Rachel, and I felt that the best way to address it was to bring everyone together in a calm, safe space. Jason walked into the dining room, looking at the setup with a mix of admiration and apprehension. "Are you sure this is a good idea?" he asked, his brows furrowed in concern. I smiled, placing a reassuring hand on his arm. "I think it's the best way to clear the air. We all need to talk and understand each other. It's better than letting misunderstandings fester." He nodded, though his worry didn't completely dissipate. "I trust you, Lily. I just hope this goes well." The doorbell rang, and my heart skipped a beat. "That's probably them," I said, giving Jason's hand a squeeze before heading