CHAPTER THIRTY – A NEW JOB

When Mara woke the next morning, she found the bed empty beside her. For a moment, she felt a pang of disappointment. But then she noticed a note on the nightstand. "Had an early meeting. Thank you for a wonderful night. - C" Mara fell back against the pillows, a mix of confusion and excitement coursing through her. What did this mean for them? Was there even a "them" to speak of? Shaking off her thoughts, Mara forced herself to focus. She had a job interview to prepare for, after all. She couldn't afford to get distracted by complicated feelings for Cassius Noble. Hours later, Mara sat in the waiting room of Starlight Industries, nervously smoothing down her skirt. This was a big opportunity - a marketing position that could put her career back on track. "Ms. Aniston?" a receptionist called. "They're ready for you now." Mara stood, took a deep breath, and walked into the conference room. Three stern-faced executives sat at the table, their expressions unreadable. "Good afternoo