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Lucian and Sloane have spent five tense, intimate days cohabiting. After Sloane’s board stalls reopening plans, Lucian insists she accompany him to DC and sets her up to design interim library services from his office. Despite bickering, they collaborate effectively, and he plans a formal dinner.

At Lucian’s condo, Grace delivers dresses for Sloane; the dinner will include Lucian’s mother, Kayla. At the upscale restaurant, Lucian publicly states he and Sloane are together. Kayla reveals her date: Anthony Hugo, who sits down uninvited and asserts control, signaling he isn’t alone.

Hugo threatens Lucian, Sloane, and Kayla, demanding federal case files and millions within forty-eight hours, implying responsibility for the arson. Sloane brandishes a butter knife and denounces him; Lucian escalates with a vow to dismantle Hugo’s life. Hugo departs with his men, promising consequences.

Maureen Fitzgerald approaches, offering information to help take down Hugo and proposing to meet later. Lucian hustles everyone out through the kitchen to a secure exit, coordinating with Grace and the security team.

In the elevator, Kayla blames Lucian for her humiliation and strikes him when he insists on security boundaries. Sloane fiercely defends Lucian, condemns Kayla’s victimhood, dependency, and judgment, and demands she seek therapy and cease contact until she can apologize. Lucian sends Kayla home under protection and leaves with Sloane, their conflict culminating in a charged kiss in the SUV.