CHAPTER SIXTY EIGHT –ALL FALLS DOWN

Later that night, as they rode home in Miguel's limousine, an uncomfortable silence stretched between them. Karina stared out the window, watching the city lights blur past, while Miguel seemed engrossed in his phone. Finally, Miguel spoke. "That was... quite a performance back there." Karina turned to face him, her expression guarded. "Well, isn't that what you wanted? To convince everyone our engagement is real?" Miguel's brow furrowed. "Of course, but... you went above and beyond. For a moment, even I almost believed it." Karina felt a flicker of irritation. "What's that supposed to mean?" "Nothing," Miguel said quickly. "I just... where did all that come from?" Karina sighed, running a hand through her hair. "I don't know. I was tired of being seen as just another trophy on your arm. I wanted to show them - and you - that I'm more than that." Miguel's expression softened. "Karina, I've never thought of you as just a trophy." "Haven't you?" Karina challenged. "From the momen