CHAPTER FORTY NINE – READING INTENTIONS

As dessert arrived - a decadent chocolate creation that looked more like art than food - Cassie found herself at a crossroads. Part of her was tempted by Karl's offer, seduced by the glimpse of a world so far removed from her own. But another part of her recoiled, sensing danger beneath the glittering surface. "You're quiet," Karl observed as they sampled the dessert. "What's going through that fascinating mind of yours?" Cassie met his gaze, suddenly feeling bold. "I'm thinking that there's a lot you're not telling me. About the Grey Room, about this... opportunity you're offering. I can't help but feel there's more going on than just running a nightclub." For a moment, something flashed in Karl's eyes - surprise? Respect? But it was gone as quickly as it appeared. "Perceptive," he murmured. "You're right, of course. The Grey Room is... more than it appears. As am I. The question is, Cassie, are you prepared to step into that world? To see behind the curtain?" Cassie's heart race