CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND TWENTY ONE – WORTH THE WAIT

Miguel, still with his arm around her, leaned in close. "Are you alright?" he asked softly, his breath warm against her ear. Karina nodded, not trusting her voice. Miguel guided her gently towards his office, shielding her from the curious stares of their colleagues. Once inside, with the door safely closed behind them, Karina let out a shaky breath. "I can't believe he did that," she said, sinking into one of the plush chairs in front of Miguel's desk. Miguel crouched down in front of her, his face etched with concern. "I'm so sorry, Karina. That was completely out of line. Are you sure you're okay?" Karina looked up at him, feeling a rush of gratitude for his support. "I am now, thanks to you. I don't know what I would have done if you hadn't stepped in." Miguel smiled softly, reaching out to squeeze her hand. "You don't have to thank me. I'll always be here for you, Karina. In whatever capacity you need." The weight of his words hung between them. Karina felt tears prick at th