Gary slipped a sleek blue folder from his leather document bag and handed it to Ares with measured confidence. The sharp scent of paper and ink drifted faintly into the room as he flipped open his laptop and brought up a presentation. The glow from the screen illuminated his composed face.
Without saying a word, Gary glanced at Scarlet.
The subtle signal was enough.
Scarlet immediately stepped forward and took the laptop from him, her fingers tightening slightly around its edges. She inhaled quietly before facing Ares.
"Ares," she began, her voice calm yet carrying quiet excitement, "allow me to present the summary of the proposal."
Ares gave a slight nod and settled onto the sofa beside Scarlet, his posture relaxed but attentive. Gary took the seat on Scarlet's other side, creating an almost formal triangle of discussion in the middle of the living room.
