"There's nothing to say between us." Cassia's reply was short and resolute. Her eyes met Ivor's, and there was both determination and lingering affection in them.
Ivor stiffened slightly at her words but quickly regained his composure. A complex mix of emotions flickered in his deep eyes, as if he had a thousand words to say but didn't know where to begin.
Finally, he only uttered words. "Cassia, don't regret this." His voice was low and magnetic, anger laced with a hint of pleading.
Cassia turned her head slightly, avoiding his gaze that seemed to see through her. "Ivor," she said softly, "I've said it before. There's nothing between us anymore."
As soon as she finished speaking, Cassia left the banquet hall, leaving Ivor with a resolute back.
*****
The next day, at the Parker Group
