CHAPTER SEVENTY FIVE - CONFESSIONS TO MAKE

Before John could even utter a word, Karina was across the room, engulfing him in a fierce hug. His body tensed under her embrace, and a flicker of pain crossed his face. Karina quickly released him, a confused frown marring her features. "John?" she breathed, her voice trembling. "What are you doing here?" John cleared his throat, his gaze shifting towards her parents, who stood at the doorway, their faces etched with a mixture of astonishment and curiosity. Her younger sisters, Sarah and Emily were there too, their eyes wide with disbelief. A billionaire CEO at their doorstep – it wasn't an everyday occurrence. "Mr. and Mrs. Gomez," John said, his voice surprisingly hoarse. "I apologize for the intrusion. I… I needed to see Karina." Karina's father recovered first. "John Hardy, what an unexpected surprise!" he exclaimed, offering a handshake. "Come in, come in. Please, don't mind the disarray." John gave a tight smile and stepped inside, his eyes lingering on Karina for a flee