CHAPTER SEVENTY THREE –WAS IT A LIE?

Karina nodded, trying to ignore the pang of disappointment in her chest. "Right. Goodnight, Miguel." As she let herself out of his apartment, Karina couldn't shake the feeling that something fundamental had shifted between them. But whether it was for better or worse, she couldn't say. The next evening found them at yet another high-society event, this time a charity auction for the local children's hospital. Karina stood by the bar, sipping a flute of champagne and trying to look interested as an older woman droned on about her recent trip to the Maldives. "Karina, darling!" A familiar voice cut through the chatter. Karina turned to see Patricia Anderson approaching, her husband Robert in tow. "You look absolutely radiant tonight. Doesn't she, Robert?" Robert's eyes raked over Karina in a way that made her skin crawl. "Indeed she does," he said, his voice oily. "Miguel's a lucky man." Karina forced a smile. "Thank you, Robert. How are you both enjoying the event?" As Patricia la