CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND FORTY TWO – HOW TO BUILD A BUSINESS

The crisp autumn air swirled fallen leaves around Karina's ankles as she hurried down the bustling sidewalk. A knot of nervous excitement tightened in her stomach. John's words echoed in her mind, a well-meaning but frustrating reminder. "'Fenrir by Karina Hardy' sounds strong, darling. But let me know if you need any help getting it off the ground. You know, with investors or…" She stopped at the crosswalk, the impatience in her stride replaced by a steely resolve. No. This was hers. Building Fenrir from the ground up, brick by brick, was how she'd prove herself, not just to John, but to everyone who doubted a stay-at-home mom with a wild idea could make it in the cutthroat world of fashion. Across the street, a sleek glass building bore the logo of 'Darling & Divine,' a renowned boutique known for catering to the city's elite. Karina took a deep breath and crossed the street, her canvas tote bag clutched tightly in her hand. She wasn't here to shop, not today. She was here to