Chapter Seventy- Seven

Karina's brows furrowed as he skillfully slipped her foot into the shoe and began to tie the straps. She swallowed hard, feeling the intensity. Each movement felt like a betrayal of her resolve.

When he finished tying the strap, Karina arose just when he stood up and held her gaze again. Their intense gaze lingered for a moment, a silent exchange of emotions passing between them.

Then Karina stepped back, her breath hitching as she glanced around the room. Cruzita's gaze bore into her, and Aidan's closed eyes betrayed his inner turmoil.

Taking a deep breath, Karina addressed them all. "From now on, you'll serve me just as I did six years ago," she declared, her voice laced with unacknowledged vulnerability and a hint of triumph.

Aidan turned to face Karina, his disbelief palpable as he met her unwavering gaze. Six years had passed, yet she stood before him now, a stark contrast to the meek woman he had once known. Her eyes betrayed no hint of concern, her expression devoid of any tr