CHAPTER FORTY FOUR – SETTING DOWN BOUNDARIES

Two days after officially becoming Eric's girlfriend, Karina reported for work at Hardy Enterprises with a permanent smile on her face. For once, Lexi hadn't requested her presence, allowing Karina to assist the office staff with administrative tasks. As she made her way through the bustling bullpen area, Karina's eyes automatically scanned for Eric. She spotted him hunched over his computer, scrolling intently with his brow furrowed in concentration. Unable to resist, Karina changed her course to detour by his desk. "Working hard, I see?" she couldn't resist teasing lightly as she leaned against the edge of his desk. Eric's head snapped up at the sound of her voice, his features instantly softening when he realized it was Karina. "You know it, beautiful. Thought I'd get a jump on things this morning." He reached out to snag her hand, tugging gently until Karina acquiesced and settled herself on his lap. Looping an arm securely around her waist, Eric nuzzled his nose against the de