CHAPTER EIGHTY-TWO - TESTING LIMITS

The night of Clarissa's dinner arrived all too soon. Mara stood outside the upscale restaurant, smoothing down her dress nervously. Cassius squeezed her hand reassuringly as they walked in. "Cassius! Mara! So glad you could make it," Clarissa's voice rang out as they approached the table. Mara's stomach dropped as she noticed an extra person at the table – a stunning blonde woman who was eyeing Cassius with obvious interest. "Cassie, darling, you remember Vanessa, don't you?" Clarissa said, a mischievous glint in her eye. Cassius stiffened beside Mara. "Vanessa. It's been a while." Vanessa stood up, air-kissing Cassius on both cheeks. "Far too long, Cassie. You're looking as handsome as ever." Mara felt like she was watching a car crash in slow motion as they all sat down, Clarissa expertly maneuvering so that Vanessa was seated next to Cassius. As the waiter poured wine, Clarissa leaned forward conspiratorially. "Mara, did Cassius ever tell you about the time he and Vanessa got