Chapter 114: Deepest of Secrets

The insistent buzzing of her phone startled Mariana from her train of thought. Glancing at the screen, a wide smile bloomed across her face. "Natasha!" she exclaimed, answering the call with a warmth reserved only for her closest friend. "Hey Mari!" Natasha's voice crackled with excitement, a touch muffled as if speaking from a crowded place. "Finally got some decent signal! You won't believe the adventures I've had in…" Mariana chuckled, letting her friend indulge in a few moments of travelogue before gently steering the conversation back home. "Hold on, hold on, Miss Explorer. I have some pretty big news too!" "Bigger than dodging wild monkeys in the Amazon?" Natasha teased. "Maybe," Mariana said, a hint of pride creeping into her voice. "I landed a role. The lead female role in 'Twinned'!" A delighted squeal erupted from the other end of the line. "Oh my gosh, Mariana! That's incredible! I knew you could do it. I always said you have that star quality." "Thanks, Nat," Mariana