“The motion to exclude is denied,” Judge Donahue announced after hearing full arguments. “The experts may testify within the scope outlined in the plaintiffs’ briefs.” He gathered his papers. “We’ll address any remaining issues at the final pretrial conference.”

As they gathered their materials, Juniper caught fragments of a carol drifting in from the hallway - something about peace on earth and goodwill toward men. The irony wasn’t lost on her as she watched Roma conference with his team, his tall frame backlit by the winter morning.

“Good work,” Daniel murmured, close enough that his breath stirred her hair. “You saw right through his strategy.”

“We both did,” she replied softly, aware of Sophia’s knowing gaze on them. The room felt charged with something more volatile than legal arguments, each small interaction carrying weight beyond its surface meaning.