CHAPTER FORTY FOUR – GAINING HIS FAVOR

Back at the satellite office, the impromptu celebration was in full swing. Someone had brought in a portable speaker, and music filled the air as people chatted and laughed, enjoying a brief respite from their usual workday. Karina was in the middle of a conversation with Dave when her phone buzzed. She glanced down, her heart skipping a beat when she saw Miguel's name on the screen. "Excuse me," she said to Dave, stepping away to take the call. "Mr. Eladio," she answered, trying to keep her voice steady. "How can I help you?" "Ms. Zaslav," Miguel's voice came through, sounding slightly strained. "I hope I'm not interrupting anything important." Karina glanced back at her celebrating team. "Not at all. Is everything alright?" There was a pause on the other end of the line. "Yes, everything's fine. I... I wanted to let you know that I'll be visiting the satellite office next week. To see your operations firsthand." Karina felt her pulse quicken. "Oh. I see. Well, we'll be happy t