CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND THIRTY ONE – THE PROTEGE

John's first day back as CEO of Hardy Enterprises was rapidly approaching. "I can't believe I'm going back to the office tomorrow," John said over breakfast. "I've missed being immersed in the company operations." Karina forced a smile. "That's great, honey. I know how much your work means to you." In truth, she felt a pang of insecurity. With John being gone so much, would he still have time for her and Becky? The next morning, John kissed Becky and Karina goodbye before heading downtown to the Hardy Enterprises tower. His assistant Margaret greeted him with a stack of files. "Welcome back, Mr. Hardy. You have a full schedule today - meetings with investors, strategy sessions, and..." John held up a hand. "Just get me caught up on the highlights. I'll review everything later." His day was a blur of catching up on the business he had neglected for over a year. By evening, he was drained as he headed home. Karina had stayed up waiting for him on the couch. "Hey, how was your fir