Back at the table, the atmosphere felt lighter than it had in days.
Martha was studying the dessert menu like it was a sacred text, while Hannah kept sneaking sidelong glances at Jean and Logan, her grin refusing to fade.
"I vote for the molten chocolate cake," Hannah announced, peering over Jean's shoulder. "Jean needs something sweet after putting the entire board in their place."
"Agreed," Martha chimed in, a glint of pride in her eyes as she set down her menu. "Though I still say nothing's sweeter than the look on Darla's face the other day."
Jean laughed softly, though the sound came out a bit shy. "Martha, please…"
"Don't 'Martha, please' me," Martha scolded gently, but her smile was warm. "You did what needed to be done. And if it were up to me, you'd get a medal, not just dessert."
Across the table, Logan's lips curved, his gaze flicking to Jean… the hint of pride in his eyes saying more than words.
