Sophia watched Daniel’s retreat, the slide of his shoes against marble fading into the general bustle of the lobby. Her gaze found Juniper’s profile, taking in the rigid set of her jaw, the way her fingers curled against her blazer like she was physically holding herself together.

“I guess I’m on my own now,” Juniper said quietly, finally meeting Sophia’s eyes. The words bearing more weight than just their legal predicament.

“Juni, we need him. He’s going to… he’s working on the procedural challenges…”

“What we need…” Juniper’s voice climbed half an octave, “…sorry, what I actually need is someone reliable. Someone who shows up when it matters.”