CHAPTER 20: QUESTIONS

Katarina's scandal kept worsening despite George's initial confidence that sufficient money and connections would smoothen things over. But seeing the intensifying public ire made him realize the severity. This was beyond trivial resolving. It was also possible that someone else was adding fuel to the fire and fuming the flame of dislike against Katarina. Lauretta had warned him that Katarina may have offended other people, and he was starting to believe her. Reading the incensed commentaries, George knew parts had to be authentic to provoke such reactions. And his extensive investigations uncovered no hints of fabrication. Reluctantly, he accepted the legitimacy of the accusations. With more force than required, he slammed the newspaper on the desk and stood up. He walked to the top-floor window in his office that overlooks the busy business street. George shoved his hand through his hair in frustration and anger before composing himself again. Letting his emotions get the best of