Page 39 of Thawed Gladiator: Cassius

Cassius

The dining hall feels emptier than usual this morning as I push open the heavy wooden door. The events of last night hang in the air like a thick fog, dampening spirits and hushing conversations.

I feel the weight of every gaze upon me as I make my way to the serving line, comrades and staff casting furtive glances in my direction before quickly looking away.

I gather my food mechanically, barely registering what I’m putting on my plate. As I search for a place to sit, I notice Diana’s usual spot is empty. The sight sends a sharp pang through my chest.

Choosing a seat at the far end of the table, I settle in, keeping my eyes fixed on my plate. The food tastes like ash in my mouth, but I force myself to eat at least a few bites, knowing I need to keep up my strength. For what, I’m not entirely sure anymore.

As I sit, pushing food around my plate, my mind races with thoughts of Diana as well as my future here. She is so angry at me that she is ready to leave this job she loves.

It’s unbearable to think of her sacrificing all of this because of the poisonous words I spewed. She’s right, though. One of us needs to leave. It should be me. How many times did she tell me this job was a lifeline for her? Her dream come true? The best thing that had ever happened to her?

I’m strong. I’ll be the one to go. It’s the right thing to do, the honorable thing. I don’t want to be the one to dash her dreams, especially after the cruel way I broke her heart.

Suddenly, I’m standing in the atrium of our villa, my father’s hand on my shoulder. “Remember, Cassius,” he says, his voice firm yet compassionate, “doing what’s best isn’t always the easiest thing. It’s what separates us Cornelii from the common rabble.”

I blink, the memory fading as quickly as it came. Is that what I’m doing now? Living up to some long-forgotten noble family creed? Or am I simply trying to escape the consequences of my actions?

As I’m about to leave, having barely touched my food, the dining hall door swings open. Dara strides in wearing her tall shoes,flanked by Varro and Laura. Their entrance silences the room momentarily before a new wave of whispers breaks out.

To my surprise, they make their way directly to my end of the table, where I’m eating alone. Dara slides into the seat across from me, while Varro and Laura flank me. I feel trapped, cornered by their presence.

Taking a deep breath, I steel myself for what I’m about to say. This is my chance to tell them of my decision to leave before I make Diana even more miserable. But before I can open my mouth, I catch the tail end of their conversation.

“…such a good idea to develop multiple income streams,” Dara is saying, her eyes glinting with excitement. “Selling the fish sauce you’ve described…”

“Garum,” Varro reminds her.

“Yeah. That. Just don’t ask me to taste it. I’ll have my marketing team help you with logos, taglines, and advertising savvy when you’re at that stage.”

As I gather my thoughts to announce my plans to leave so Diana can remain here, Dara turns her attention to me.

“Cassius, perfect timing,” she says, her voice smooth as honey. “I have a proposition for you.”

I raise an eyebrow, wondering what this woman wants with me.

“Tonight, I’m attending a gala in St. Louis,” Dara continues, “and it would be absolutely amazing to have one of you gladiators on my arm. It would be great PR for Second Chance, keep you all in the public eye, and increase demand for the garum you plan to sell. What do you say?”

I blink, taken aback by the sudden offer. “I… I’m not sure I’m the best choice,” I stammer, thinking of my recent behavior.

Dara waves her hand dismissively. “Nonsense. You’re perfect. You’ll be perfect for the face of Second Chance. I’ll take care of everything—clothing, transportation, and all the expenses. Consider it a night out on the town.”

I glance at Varro and Laura, searching their faces for some guidance. They look surprised but not opposed to the idea.

As I consider Dara’s offer, I realize it might be the perfect answer to my predicament with Diana. It’s like a test. If I can handle being in public, being out on my own, then I can stay away from Second Chance and let Diana blossom here.

“Before I answer, there’s something I need to say,” I begin, my voice wavering slightly. “I’ve decided to leave Second Chance.”

The words almost stuck in my throat, but I forced them out. It’s the only way. I’ve poisoned everything I’ve touched here with my pride and cruelty. Diana deserves better than to be driven from her home by my demons. Better that I go, better that I face this new world alone than watch the light die in her eyes every time she looks at me.

The silence is deafening. Laura’s eyes widen in shock, while Varro’s brow furrows in concern.

“Leave?” Laura repeats, her voice barely above a whisper. “I know you and Diana had a falling out, but she’s already told me she’s leaving. I hate to see her go, but Second Chance was built for you and the other gladiators. You’re welcome to stay.”

I take a deep breath, struggling to find the right words. “After what happened last night… it’s clear that my presence here is causing problems. Not just with Diana, but with my comrades. Diana shouldn’t have to leave because of me. This place, this job, it means everything to her. I won’t be the reason she loses it.”

Varro leans forward, his eyes searching mine. “Cassius, are you sure about this? You know so little about this world, its ways, even the language. Where will you go?”

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