Jack suddenly fell silent.
After a moment, he said, âWhat if I had my face done?â
Leilani was shocked and quickly responded, âDonât do that.
If you have your face done, Karina will never speak to you again.
Youâll lose her and your career.
Itâs not worth it.
â
Jack glanced at her, then leaned back against the headboard, looking defeated.
âI was just speaking out of frustration.
â
He was infuriated by Carlowâs presence, but it was eerie how much Carlow resembled the late Mr.
Tucker.
Outside the ward, Barlow still had his arm around Karinaâs waist, and she quickly pulled away, stepping aside to put some distance between them.
Seeing her cold demeanor, Barlow smiled and said, âHoney, isnât it a bit harsh to treat me this way?â
Karina looked straight ahead, her tone icy.
âCarlow, I didnât reveal your lies in the ward because I didnât feel the need to clarify our relationship.
However, always remember, you are not my boyfriend.
â
âKarina, I helped you get rid of Jack, and yet you treat me so coldly.
Iâm heartbroken,â Barlow teased, a hint of banter in his tone.
Karina ignored him, pressing the elevator button and stepping inside.
Barlow slowly followed her inside.
âHeading back now?â he asked.
âYes.
â Karina nodded.
They stood in silence as the elevator descended.
Karina glanced at his reflection on the elevator wall, feeling a twinge of softness at the thought of his company throughout the evening.
When they reached the ground floor, she said, âIâll drive.
â
She felt thankful to him.
âLet me handle it,â Barlow insisted, taking off his coat and draping it over her shoulders.
Karina felt the warmth spread across her shoulders and into her heart.
Looking at the dark, cold night, she tightened the coat around herself.
âI can drive,â she insisted.
It was a long drive from Wragos to Skrix, and it was late and cold now.
She didnât want him to drive back, considering he might be too tired to do so safely.
Once they reached the parking lot, Barlow opened the passenger door for her.
âGet in the car,â he said firmly.