CHAPTER THIRTY FOUR – THE CEO RETURNS

Karina stepped out of the courthouse, basking in the warm glow of victory. Her family surrounded her, their faces radiant with pride and relief. For the first time in what felt like an eternity, she could breathe freely, the weight of her ordeal lifting from her shoulders. As they descended the steps, a sleek, black limousine caught Karina's eye. Its gleaming exterior seemed to beckon, a symbol of opulence and sophistication. Curiosity piqued, she watched as the rear door swung open, and a familiar figure emerged. John Hardy stepped out, his presence commanding immediate attention. Impeccably dressed in a tailored suit, he exuded an aura of power and confidence. But it was the woman on his arm that made Karina's heart skip a beat. Lexi King, the supermodel, clung to John's side, her beauty almost otherworldly. Her blonde hair cascaded in perfect waves, and her designer dress hugged her lithe frame, leaving little to the imagination. Karina felt a pang of envy, quickly followed by a