CHAPTER FORTY SEVEN – KARL’S OFFER

There was something in his tone that made Cassie's skin prickle. She met his gaze, trying to read the intent behind his words. "I do my best, Mr. von Steiner." "Please," he said, his voice smooth as silk. "Call me Karl." Cassie nodded, not trusting herself to speak. The air between them felt charged, heavy with unspoken implications. "You know," Karl continued, swirling the liquid in his glass, "I've been watching you, Cassie. You have a certain... quality. A spark that sets you apart." "Thank you," Cassie said carefully. "I'm just trying to do my job well." Karl's laugh was low and rich. "Oh, I think we both know it's more than that. You have ambition, don't you? A desire to rise above your... humble beginnings?" Cassie felt a flash of indignation at his thinly veiled reference to Cheesy Fingers, but she pushed it down. "I believe in working hard and taking opportunities when they present themselves." "Admirable," Karl nodded. "And what if I told you I could present you with an