CHAPTER THIRTEEN – KEEPING IT COOL

Mara's heart raced as she nodded, following Cassius out of the conference room and down the hall to his office. As soon as the door closed behind them, Cassius turned to face her, his expression unreadable. "I hope you understand the importance of discretion in light of recent... events," he said, his voice low. Mara nodded, her throat dry. "Of course, Mr. Noble. I haven't said a word to anyone, and I don't intend to." Cassius studied her for a moment, his dark eyes intense. "See that you don't. The success of this company depends on maintaining a professional environment. We can't afford any... distractions." "I understand," Mara said softly, fighting the urge to look away from his penetrating gaze. "Good," Cassius said curtly. "That will be all, Ms. Aniston." Mara turned to leave, her hand on the doorknob, when Cassius spoke again. "And Mara?" She paused, looking back at him. For a moment, she thought she saw a flicker of something softer in his eyes, but it was gone so quickl