CHAPTER SEVENTY FOUR –HERO

They settled at the kitchen island, wine glasses filled and snacks within easy reach. As Miguel dealt the cards, Karina found herself relaxing for the first time in weeks. "Okay," Miguel said, arranging his cards. "Do you have any threes?" Karina grinned. "Go fish." As they played, their conversation flowed easily, touching on everything from childhood memories to favorite movies. Karina found herself laughing more than she had in months, enjoying this playful side of Miguel she rarely got to see. "Ha!" Miguel crowed triumphantly, laying down his last pair. "I win!" Karina groaned dramatically. "I demand a rematch. You must have cheated." Miguel clutched his chest in mock offense. "Me? Cheat? I'm wounded by the accusation." Karina couldn't help but laugh at his exaggerated expression. "Fine, fine. You won fair and square. This time." As their laughter subsided, a comfortable silence fell between them. Karina found herself studying Miguel's face, noting the way his eyes crinkled