Miguel and Karen are already at the table when they arrive. Claire almost fails to recognize Karen—she's wearing something fashionable and classy, and she glitters in the half-dark with all that jewelry—a far cry from the woman of only a few hours ago. How in hell does a thing like this happen?
Miguel stands up and gives Claire a hug, and whispers in her ear, "You look smashing, baby!"
She's taken aback by that, but she hides it. "Your date is smashing, too. Where's Karen?" she teases.
"You are unbelievable," Karen giggles as she stands and gives her an air-kiss. "It's still me, the little innocent wide-eyed girl underneath this fancy exterior of glamor and signature brands."
Claire bites her lip to stop herself from saying something scathing; Karen's fakeness is really getting on her nerves, but she tries to focus on her singular mission: survive the night.
"So Gabriel, it's nice meeting you again," Karen says. "Miguel talked my ears off about his beloved older brother."
