CHAPTER SIXTY FOUR - SHADOWS IN THE LIGHT

Max chuckled, the sound warm and genuine. "High praise indeed. Though I think I'll stick to boardrooms rather than mud pits in the future." They shared a laugh, and Ava marveled at how easy it felt. The Max standing beside her now was a far cry from the intimidating figure she'd avoid ed in the office hallways. "We should head back inside," Max said after a while. "Big day tomorrow." Ava nodded, following him back into the dining hall. As they rejoined the group, she couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation for what the rest of the retreat might bring. The next morning dawned bright and clear, promising another day of team-building activities. However, as the participants gathered for breakfast, there was an undercurrent of tension in the air. Ava noticed Max in deep conversation with one of the retreat staff members, his brow furrowed in concern. She made her way over, curiosity getting the better of her. "Is everything alright?" she asked as she approached. Max looked u