CHAPTER SEVENTY SIX –BUSINESS AND PLEASURE

"It was," Miguel admitted. "At first. But Karina, she's... she's not what I expected. She challenges me, makes me want to be better. I find myself forgetting it's all an act sometimes." Karina's mind reeled. Was Miguel saying what she thought he was saying? "Careful, my friend," Robert cautioned. "Mixing business with pleasure rarely ends well. Take it from someone who knows." Miguel's laugh was bitter. "Believe me, I'm well aware of the risks. But I can't help wondering..." Karina stumbled back, her heel catching on the plush carpet. She righted herself quickly, but not before making enough noise to alert the men to her presence. "Is someone there?" Miguel called out. Panic rising in her throat, Karina hurried away, her mind whirling with what she'd overheard. Miguel's words echoed in her head, stirring up a confusing mix of hope and fear. The rest of the evening passed in a blur. Karina went through the motions, smiling for photos and making small talk, all while hyper-aware o