CHAPTER FIFTY TWO – OVER THE DECK

Mara's breath caught in her throat. "What's that?" she whispered. Cassius's eyes searched hers, filled with a mixture of vulnerability and determination. "I have feelings for you, Mara. Strong feelings. I've tried to fight it, to maintain a professional distance, but I can't deny it any longer." A wave of emotion washed over Mara – joy, excitement, and a hint of trepidation. "Cassius, I... I feel the same way," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. "But it's complicated. Your sister, my job..." "I know," Cassius said, his thumbs tracing soothing circles on her waist. "And we'll figure all of that out. But right now, in this moment, I just want to..." He trailed off, leaning in slowly, giving her every opportunity to pull away. But Mara found herself drawn to him like a magnet, her eyes fluttering closed as their lips finally met. The kiss was explosive, filled with the pent-up passion of their denied desires. His mouth was soft and insistent, moving over hers with a fami