CHAPTER SIXTY THREE – MEDIA PERSONALITY

As they stepped out of the car, camera flashes exploded around them. Karina plastered on her best smile, leaning into Miguel as they posed for photos. His hand on her lower back felt warm, steady, and for a moment, she could almost believe this was real. Inside the gala, they mingled with the guests, playing their parts to perfection. Karina laughed at Miguel's jokes, touched his arm affectionately, and beamed with pride as he discussed the company's latest achievements. To anyone watching, they were the picture of a couple deeply in love. As they made their way to the Petersons, Karina felt Miguel tense beside her. She squeezed his hand reassuringly, and he shot her a grateful look. "Mr. and Mrs. Peterson," Miguel greeted warmly. "Thank you so much for inviting us. This is my fiancée, Karina Zaslav." Mrs. Peterson, a elegant woman in her sixties, smiled kindly at Karina. "It's lovely to meet you, dear. We've heard so much about you." Mr. Peterson, however, was less welcoming. "El