CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND FORTY FOUR - The Calm Before

They spent the rest of the afternoon by the pool, trying to recapture their earlier relaxation. But despite their best efforts, the encounter left a sour taste in Mara's mouth, a reminder of the world she sometimes felt she didn't quite belong in. As the sun began to set, Cassius stood, offering his hand to Mara. "Come on, I've got a surprise for you." Mara raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Another one? You're spoiling me, Mr. Noble." Cassius grinned, pulling her to her feet. "That's the plan, Ms. Aniston." They made their way back to their suite, where Cassius instructed Mara to dress for dinner. As she slipped into a flowing sundress, Mara felt her earlier unease start to fade, replaced by anticipation for whatever Cassius had planned. When they stepped out of the resort, a sleek car was waiting for them. The drive was short but scenic, winding along clifftops that offered breathtaking views of the ocean below. Finally, they pulled up to a restaurant perched on the edge of a cliff,