CHAPTER SEVENTY-FOUR - IN THE WAKE OF TRUTH

  Nia's mouth watered at the sight of the perfectly cooked steaks, accompanied by roasted vegetables and a bottle of red wine. "Leon, this is... wow. You didn't have to do all this." He pulled out a chair for her, his hand brushing her arm as she sat down. "I wanted to. It's been a long week, and I thought we both deserved a treat." As they ate, their conversation flowed effortlessly, touching on work, their personal lives, and everything in between. Nia found herself opening up to Leon in a way she never had before, sharing her dreams and fears. "You know," Leon said, refilling their wine glasses, "I've always admired your dedication. The way you throw yourself into your work, it's inspiring." Nia felt a blush creep up her cheeks. "Thank you. I could say the same about you. The firm wouldn't be the same without you." Their eyes met across the table, and Nia felt a jolt of electricity run through her. The air between them seemed to crackle with unspoken tension. As the evening d