Chapter 31

• The talk and laughing were abundant as the dinner was in full flow. Max stood close to the middle of the space, a calm mask covering the tempest that was building inside of him. Lena was at his side, her gaze never leaving him, her manner refined and focused.
• Lena remarked softly, "You look tense, Max," her tone bearing concern. "Is everything alright?"
• "Just a lot on my mind," Max measuredly answered. "It's been a long week."