CHAPTER FORTY EIGHT – A STRANGE CONFRONTATION

"I worry John is taking advantage of your ambition and drive," Karina went on, the words tumbling out in a worried rush. "Loading you up with all these new responsibilities deliberately to keep you constantly occupied and away from me." Eric pulled back enough to meet her gaze, his eyes searching hers intently. "You really think he would do that? Try to sabotage our relationship that way?" A flicker of doubt crossed his tired features, as if he was genuinely considering the possibility for the first time. Karina knew how highly Eric regarded his boss and mentor - it would be a harsh realization if John's intentions were more sinister than they appeared. "I don't know for sure," Karina admitted carefully. "But you have to agree, the timing of all these extra accounts being piled onto you seems...convenient from his perspective." She thought of John's lingering stares, the subtle displeasure that shadowed his expression whenever she and Eric were affectionate in front of him. The way