CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND SIXTY SEVEN – AWKWARD CONFRONTATION

Throughout the morning, Karina found herself grateful for Jason's offer of help. A particularly challenging project had landed on her desk, and she was struggling to focus with all the personal stress weighing on her mind. Around lunchtime, Jason stopped by her desk again. "Hey, Karina. You look a bit overwhelmed. Want me to take a look at that project with you? Sometimes a fresh pair of eyes can help." Karina hesitated for a moment before nodding. "Actually, that would be great. Thanks, Jason." They were huddled over her computer, discussing the project, when a commotion near the elevators caught their attention. Karina looked up to see Miguel striding purposefully towards her desk, his face set in a hard expression. "Miguel?" Karina said, standing up. "What are you doing here?" Miguel's eyes darted between Karina and Jason, narrowing slightly. "I thought we could grab lunch," he said, his voice tight. "I didn't realize you were... busy." Jason straightened up, offering his hand