CHAPTER THIRTY TWO – PULL OUT THE STOPS

Mara spent the next few hours in a frenzy of activity. She called every caterer in the city, finally finding one who could accommodate the last-minute request – at an exorbitant price, of course. She ordered flowers, rented tables and chairs, and even managed to book a steel drum duo (a full band was impossible on such short notice). As the clock struck two, guests began to arrive. Mara rushed around, directing the setup and trying to ensure everything was perfect. All the while, Clarissa lounged by the pool, holding court with her friends and seemingly oblivious to the chaos around her. "Mara, darling!" Clarissa called out. "Be a dear and fetch us some more champagne. The good stuff, mind you. And some of those delightful little canapés." Mara gritted her teeth and plastered on a smile. "Right away, Clarissa." As she navigated the crowded pool area with a tray of drinks and hors d'oeuvres, Mara caught sight of a familiar figure entering the backyard. Cassius, looking devastatingly