“I agree,” he said. “I’ll see if I can find any additional insights on his past rulings. The more prepared we are, the better.”

“That’s a great idea,” she said, impressed by his thoroughness. “Together, we can cover all angles.”

Another silence settled, but this time it felt different… more charged. The elevator continued its descent, and she felt the subtle sway as it moved. She shifted her weight slightly, and her shoulder brushed against his arm again. The contact sent a thrill through her, and she wondered if he felt it too.

Daniel’s breath caught at the contact. The simple touch set his nerves alight, a spark igniting within him. This is dangerous territory, he thought. But he couldn’t bring himself to move away, drawn to the warmth of her presence… unexpectedly calming despite her fiery demeanor.