Before Juniper could respond, Daniel materialized beside her, the supplemental briefs clasped in his hands like a shield. His return had been silent, efficient - exactly what she needed without having to ask - on point. The weight of his presence steadied her, even as Roma’s eyes narrowed at their unconscious unity.

“We’ve reviewed the options,” Juniper replied, her voice cool and professional despite the way her pulse hammered beneath her skin. “Though I suspect we have rather different views on what constitutes an appropriate resolution.”

Roma’s laugh hit the air like shattered glass, his jaw twitching beneath the performance. “Don’t we always?” His gaze locked on Daniel’s position at Juniper’s shoulder, a muscle in his cheek spasming once. “Though sometimes perspectives shift, given proper… motivation.”