CHAPTER EIGHTY-NINE - THE FINAL STRETCH

Mara felt a warmth spread through her at his words. She stepped forward, taking his hand in hers. "What did she say?" Cassius sighed. "She didn't back down. Said I was making a huge mistake, that I'd regret choosing you over family. But I meant what I said, Mara. I'm done letting her control our lives." As they stood there, hand in hand, Mara felt a mix of emotions. Relief that Cassius had finally taken a stand, worry about what Clarissa might do next, and a cautious hope for their future. What they didn't know was that across town, Clarissa was already plotting her next move. She might have lost this battle, but in her mind, the war was far from over. As she poured herself a large glass of wine, a malicious smile played on her lips. If Cassius thought he could simply cut her out of his life, he had another thing coming. And as for Mara... well, Clarissa had saved her most devious scheme for last. The next few days passed in a whirlwind of activity. Mara threw herself into rebuildi