#Chapter 32: The Deal

Ella The large wooden conference table felt cool and smooth beneath my fingertips as I arranged the files in neat stacks. I could feel my palms getting sweaty with anticipation. This was one of the first significant cases I’d handled solo at the firm, and I wanted everything to be perfect. To add a touch of hospitality, I carefully set out a tray of assorted pastries fresh from a popular bakery downtown. There was a soft knock at the door, and Logan sauntered in. His demeanor was relaxed, in stark contrast to my tight bundle of nerves. “Good morning, Ella,” he greeted, raising an eyebrow at my meticulous setup. “Morning,” I replied with a half-smile, adjusting a paper clip that was slightly out of place. “Thank you for coming.” Before Logan could respond, the door opened again, and in walked the tenant accompanied by his lawyer. I recognized the lawyer from previous interactions around the firm. He was known to be a tough negotiator, a thought which only fueled