CHAPTER SEVENTY - CASSIUS TAKES CHARGE

As they gathered Clarissa's things and prepared to head back to Las Vegas, Mara couldn't help but feel a mix of emotions. Relief that Clarissa was safe, frustration at the wild goose chase they'd been on, and a strange sense of disappointment that their adventure was over. On the drive back, Clarissa filled them in on her "adventure" – a whirlwind few days of parties, impromptu road trips, and living in the moment. As she talked, Mara could see Cassius's expression softening. Despite his anger, it was clear he was just happy to have his sister back safe and sound. When they arrived back at the hotel in Las Vegas, the rest of the group was overjoyed to see Clarissa. There were hugs, tears, and more than a few exasperated exclamations about the worry she'd caused. As the excitement died down, Mara found herself standing next to Cassius, watching as Clarissa regaled the others with tales of her adventure. "Thank you," Cassius said softly, not taking his eyes off his sister. "For every