The week passed in a rhythm that felt almost too good to be real.
By Friday evening, Ethan's material specifications were complete, his timeline approved, and the Chen commission officially green-lit for production.
"Good work, Montgomery. Keep this up."
Now, as Ethan packed up his station, exhaustion and satisfaction warred in his chest.
Sophie glanced over. "Heading out?"
"Yeah. Long week."
"Good week though." She gestured at his hand. "Nice ring, by the way. Haven't stopped noticing it."
Ethan smiled, turning his hand to catch the light. "Thanks."
"Gabriel's got good taste."
"He does."
"In jewelry and in men, apparently." Sophie grinned. "Have a good weekend, Montgomery."
"You too, Sophie."
Ethan took the elevator down, finding Gabriel already waiting in the lobby.
He'd loosened his tie, rolled his sleeves, looked ready to leave the work week behind.
"Hey," Gabriel said, straightening when he saw him.
