CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND EIGHTY SIX – PREGNANCY CRAVINGS

"Karina, darling! How are you feeling? Have you been eating enough? Getting enough rest?" Her mother's rapid-fire questions came through the speaker. "I'm fine, Mom. Everything's fine," Karina replied, her tone clipped. "Are you sure? You sound stressed. Is Miguel taking good care of you?" Karina caught Miguel's eye, a small smile playing on her lips despite her irritation. "Yes, Mom. Miguel's been great." "Well, that's good to hear. Your father and I have been talking, and we think it might be best if you moved back home for a while. Just until the baby's born. We could help take care of you." Karina's grip on the phone tightened. "Mom, we've been over this. I'm staying here with Miguel. We're fine." "But darling, you need proper care. And with your job being so demanding-" "Mom, I have to go," Karina interrupted. "I'll call you later, okay? Love you." She hung up before her mother could protest further. Miguel watched her carefully. "Everything okay?" Karina sighed, slumping