Not That Thick
Mark had been aware that Cat seemed to hold some kind of torch for him. He had thought she was somewhat attractive. He had spent most of his life on the sidelines. Even with his family history he had always been bookish and shy. Always feeling like the new guy had taught him not to get too friendly with pretty girls though since one never knew when their jealous paramours would show up to teach him a lesson.

Cat was different though. Intellectually and emotionally he had started to get that.

The whole thing that had happened thought had gotten him to see life was too short. And Darius had even come back from the dead and called Mark an idiot for not taking a risk. If his 'big brother' said that it had to be true.

So Mark is going to try. And hope to god she doesn't send him packing. He clears his throat and very shyly knocks on her door before putting on his most charming look.