Chapter 56 It's All Just For Show

• Serena left under some pretense, and the silence in the cabin felt heavy. Darius and I both sensed it—too sparse, too awkward. Thinking we still had work to finalize from the previous project, I suggested inviting Joe and Steve over, combining business with a small gathering. Since the barbecue hadn’t started yet, the invitation felt natural.
• What I hadn’t expected was Emma showing up.
• She arrived carrying food, naturally stepping into the role of hostess. The long table groaned under the weight of grilled beef, lamb chops, sausages, bacon-wrapped asparagus, and a whole roasted leg of lamb. Corn, mushrooms, and potatoes sizzled on the rack, their aroma blending with the warmth of the bonfire. Nearby, the dessert table displayed apple pie, brownies, and cheesecake, weaving sweet scents into the savory air.