CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED SIX - Hearts on Fire

As Cassius poured the champagne, Mara couldn't help but notice the weariness in his eyes. This situation was taking its toll on all of them. "You did well today," Cassius said, handing her a glass. "Very well, in fact. You've proven beyond a doubt that you're the right person to lead the Manhattan subsidiary." "Thank you," Mara replied, taking a sip of the bubbly liquid. "But I have a feeling this isn't just a social call." Cassius sighed, sinking into the chair across from her. "No, it's not. Mara, I need to know... what's really going on with Gabriel?" Mara hesitated, weighing her words carefully. "What makes you think something's going on?" "Come on, Mara," Cassius said, a hint of frustration creeping into his voice. "I know you. You've been watching him like a hawk for weeks. And today... that wasn't just about business strategy, was it?" Mara set down her glass, her mind racing. This was the moment she had been both dreading and waiting for. She thought about Gabriel's claim