CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND TWENTY SIX – PETTY FRUSTRATIONS

The weeks following John's abrupt departure for Shanghai stretched interminably for Karina. Taking care of baby Becky's every need entirely on her own, with only the help of Maria during the day, was utterly draining in a way she hadn't anticipated. Though she treasured every moment with her daughter, she found herself snapping at the sweet-natured housekeeper over the smallest things. Like the temperature of Becky's bathwater being a degree too cool, or her formula having just a hint of clumps despite Maria's meticulous preparations. On the rare nights when John was able to video call before Becky's bedtime, Karina struggled to hide her bone-deep exhaustion and irritability from him. She knew viewing their daughter, even through a screen, was the only thing getting him through the long days and nights apart. So she plastered on a calm smile, afraid to burden him with the reality of how overwhelming this season of solo parenting had become. The loneliness of their cavernous ma