CHAPTER SIXTY THREE - IN THE NICK OF TIME

Ava glanced around, taking in their surroundings. "Well, there's a small wooded area over there. Might be a good place for pinecones and maybe that elusive four-leaf clover." "Good thinking," Max nodded. "Let's head that way." As they walked, the silence between them grew uncomfortable. Ava found herself searching for something – anything – to say. "So... do you do this kind of thing often? Team-building retreats, I mean," she asked, wincing internally at how forced it sounded. Max's lips quirked in what might have been the ghost of a smile. "Not really. This is actually my first time organizing one. I thought it might help... improve morale." Ava couldn't help but notice the hint of uncertainty in his voice. It was oddly humanizing, seeing this glimpse of vulnerability in her usually stoic boss. They reached the wooded area and began searching for items. Ava spotted a pinecone and reached for it, only to find Max's hand already there. This time, neither of them pulled away immed