CHAPTER SEVENTEEN – A TWISTED STORY

The Hogan estate towered high above wrought iron gates as the security escort drove Karina and her parents down a long, winding drive. Green lawns stretched as far as the eye could see, dotted with stately trees and flower gardens. They pulled up to the mansion's grand entry. Two large men in suits greeted them, faces expressionless. "Follow us, please." Karina sensed trouble as they walked the garden path. Matthew sat on a bench, smiling pleasantly. His parents stood behind, frowns marring their faces. Karina's father spoke first. "We need to discuss what happened with our daughter." Matthew smiled. "I'm sure this is all a misunderstanding." His father scoffed. "A likely story from these troublemakers." Karina's father stiffened. "We demand the truth about how our daughter was treated." Matthew's father flushed red. "The only lies I hear are from your scheming girl. She's sowing discord where none exists." The men stepped close, noses nearly touching. Matthew's mother raised h