Her choice to sit on the floor in front of the boss isn’t disrespectful — it’s habit. Trauma. Comfort.

And for once, no one mocks her.

They just watch.

Let’s show a moment of growing respect, subtle bonding, and the reward of a well-executed mission.

---

Chapter 10: The Floor Is Enough

The conference room had never felt this calm.

For once, no arguments. No rushed intel. No half-shouted theories or coffee stains.

Just silence… and six agents seated neatly around a long glass table.

Except for one.

Rook sat on the floor beside her chair, legs crossed, notebook open on her lap, scribbling something in shorthand only she understood.

She didn’t look up.

Didn’t feel she needed to.

The boss entered, heavy coat over one shoulder, calm expression hiding quiet pride.

> “Well done.”

His voice cut through the still air.

Everyone straightened, even Cain.

Rook didn’t move.

Just kept writing.

---

The boss’s eyes briefly scanned the room.

Then landed on her.

She looked up now — not startled, not apologetic — just aware.

The boss gave a slight nod.

> “That seat uncomfortable?”

> “No,” she replied softly.

“The floor’s quieter.”

A beat.

No one laughed.

Not even Oren.

---

The boss moved on.

> “We shut down a minor node in a massive network. The trail goes deeper, and we’ll follow it… but this was a damn strong beginning.”

He looked at Rook.

Then at Oren.

> “You two cracked it open.”

Oren nodded once, quiet pride in his chest. He didn’t say much.

Just threw a quick glance toward the girl on the floor, who had resumed her scribbling.

---

> “You’ve earned a few days,” the boss continued.

“Both of you. Starting now. Disappear if you need to. Rest. Eat. Or sleep — if you remember how.”

He smirked faintly.

> “Because next week, I’ll be dragging you back into hell.”

---

As the team rose, chairs scraping back, Rook didn’t move right away.

Then Oren extended a hand down to her.

She stared at it. Not confused — just deciding.

Then took it.

He pulled her up easily.

> “Floor’s quieter, huh?” he said.

> “Chairs don’t echo,” she muttered.

“People do.”

He didn’t fully understand it.

But he didn’t let go of her hand for a few seconds longer than usual.

---

End of Chapter 10