CHAPTER TEN – FACE TO FACE

This change was never more apparent than at the company dinner held the following week to celebrate the successful completion of the project. Karina stood in front of her mirror, smoothing down the silky fabric of her emerald green cocktail dress. It was her first company dinner, and she was determined to make a good impression. As she entered the elegantly decorated banquet hall, Karina was immediately struck by the grandeur of the event. Crystal chandeliers cast a warm glow over the room, their light glinting off the polished silverware adorning the meticulously set tables. The air was filled with the gentle strains of a string quartet and the low hum of conversation. For a moment, Karina felt overwhelmed. But then she spotted Elena waving her over to a table near the center of the room. "Karina! Over here!" Elena called, patting the empty seat beside her. "You look amazing!" Grateful for the friendly face, Karina made her way over. As she settled into her seat, she became aw