CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND FIFTY THREE - THE SNOW FALLS SILENTLY

To her relief, Irina's expression shifted from surprise to intrigue. "And you are...?" "Mara Aniston, Ms. Volkov. I'm here to assist Ms. Noble and represent Keppler Heritage's interests." Irina nodded slowly, a newfound respect glimmering in her eyes. "Very well, Ms. Aniston. Perhaps you can enlighten us further on these European ventures?" For the next hour, Mara found herself center stage, fielding questions and providing insights she didn't even know she possessed. Clarissa, to her credit, supported Mara's points and added her own perspectives when needed. As the meeting concluded, Irina approached Mara. "You've given me much to consider, Ms. Aniston. I look forward to our next discussion." Once outside the conference room, Clarissa let out a long breath. "Well, that was... unexpected. Where did all that come from, Mara?" Mara shook her head, still processing what had happened. "Honestly? I'm not sure. I just remembered bits and pieces from the reports Cassius had us review. I