Mary led me downstairs, chatting as she showed me around the building.
I could tell this was the place Mars spent most of his time. Mary, like a true host, knew the ins and outs of every corner, speaking with a confidence that came from familiarity.
"You seem to know this place well," I said with a smile.
A flash of pride crossed her face, though she quickly masked it. "Of course. I've been here for five years. I started working with Mars when he first took over…"
Realizing she'd said too much, she abruptly stopped talking.
I smiled at her, letting it slide. We took the elevator down to the basement. When the doors opened, we stepped into a long hallway. Mary led me forward.
Before we even reached the main area, the sound of voices and laughter drifted toward us. At the end of the ha
