CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND FORTY FOUR – A CHASE FOR PERFECTION

The rhythmic clack of the sewing machine echoed through the apartment, a relentless counterpoint to the tension that hung thick in the air. Karina, hunched over a half-finished Fenrir dress, her brow furrowed in intense concentration, barely registered John's presence as he entered the room. "Hey," John said softly, placing a hand on her shoulder. He squeezed gently, but Karina flinched, a sigh escaping her lips. "Almost done with this," she mumbled, not looking up. John noticed the dark circles under her eyes, the telltale signs of exhaustion etched on her usually vibrant face. He pulled up a chair beside her, his concern growing. "Karina, it's almost midnight. You've been at this for… well, longer than I can remember." Karina finally met his gaze, her eyes pleading for understanding. "This dress," she said, holding it up, "it's for the upcoming fashion week showcase. It has to be perfect. It has to be a statement piece that embodies everything Fenrir stands for." John recogniz