CHAPTER SEVENTY-ONE - THE CHAOTIC RETURN

As the flight progressed, Clarissa's demands became increasingly unreasonable. She complained about everything from the quality of the in-flight entertainment to the lack of caviar on the menu. Cassius's patience was clearly wearing thin. About halfway through the flight, Mara decided to stretch her legs. As she made her way to the bathroom, she passed the first-class cabin. Cassius caught her eye, a look of desperation on his face. "Mara," he called softly. "Could you come here for a moment?" She approached cautiously, aware of Clarissa's glare. "Yes, Mr. Noble?" Cassius winced at the formality. "Please, it's Cassius. I was wondering if you could help me convince Clarissa to get some rest. She's been... difficult." Clarissa's eyes narrowed. "I can hear you, you know. And I don't need a babysitter." Mara took a deep breath, summoning all her patience. "Clarissa, why don't we try some of those breathing exercises we talked about? They might help you relax." For a moment, it seeme