"I've evolved," he said, straightening in mock indignation. "I'm a grown man now. A reformed prankster. I've turned over a new leaf."
She stood up, brushing imaginary crumbs from her clothes. "Yeah, and the leaf is probably hiding another prank underneath."
Silas chuckled, watching her grab her bag and jacket. His smile dimmed slightly as he watched her pause at the door.
"I mean it, Avery," he said, his voice softer now. "These days might feel long and heavy, but you're stronger than all of them. You were meant for this. Don't forget that."
Avery glanced back at him, and for a moment, her heart skipped. The way he looked at her—no sarcasm, no jokes, just quiet faith—was enough to weaken the walls she tried to keep around her.
She offered him a small, rare smile. "Thanks… I needed to hear that."
He gave her a short salute. "Now go dazzle those boardroom fossils."
With one final look, she stepped outside, the door clicking shut behind her.
