He was already there, of course. Leaning against the railing again, same spot as yesterday, like it had become their unspoken place.
"Congratulations," he said, not turning.
"You too," she said softly.
For a moment, they said nothing.
Then he asked, "Does it feel the way you thought it would?"
Caroline considered that.
"Yes and no," she admitted. "It's not the kind of joy that explodes. It's... steadier than that. It feels like something long overdue finally clicked into place."
Marco nodded. "You earned it."
Caroline hesitated, then stepped closer. "We did."
He gave her a look. One that said thank you. One that also said I see you. Not just the strategist. Not just the woman who lived for control and clarity.
But all of her.
"I think Dominic's going to offer me the regional lead officially next week," she said.
Marco didn't flinch. "Good."
"Even if it means I'll be gone most of the year?"
"You're allowed to outgrow places," he said quietly. "Even people."
