CHAPTER THIRTY ONE – THE SWEET NEW DEAL

"I really do hope you find happiness, Alex," Cassie said. Alex managed a sad smile. "You too, Cass. You deserve it." As Cassie walked away, she felt a mixture of grief and relief. A chapter of her life was ending, but another was just beginning. The next day, Cassie met with Marcus to discuss the job at the Grey Room. As they sat in a sleek, modern cafe, Marcus laid out the details of the position. "So, as I mentioned before, you'd be starting as our lead hostess. But Cassie, I see real potential in you. With your experience and people skills, I think you could move up to management pretty quickly." Cassie nodded, impressed by the opportunity. "That sounds amazing, Marcus. But I have to ask - why me? I'm sure you have plenty of qualified applicants." Marcus leaned forward, his eyes intense. "Because you have something special, Cassie. A spark. I've seen how you handle difficult customers, how you keep your cool under pressure. That's rare." He paused, then added with a grin, "Pl