(Reese)
The restaurant was already busy when we walked in. The sound of conversation filled the space without becoming overwhelming, just enough to create a low constant backdrop. It felt private without being closed off, the kind of place meant for long dinners where nobody rushed to leave.
Marcus was already seated when we reached the table. He stood as soon as he saw us, relief showing for a brief second before he covered it. His sister remained seated, watching quietly as Ethan and I approached together.
“Good to see you,” Marcus said.
“You too,” Ethan replied.
Marcus nodded toward me. “Reese.”
“Marcus.”
He gestured to the woman beside him. “Elena.”
She stood and shook my hand first. Her grip was firm, her expression polite but observant. “Nice to finally meet you.”
“You too,”
