CHAPTER FIFTY THREE – AVOIDING LEXI’S WRATH

The next morning, Karina arrived at the studio for Lexi's photoshoot feeling anxious and on edge. She kept replaying the traumatic confrontation with Lexi over and over in her mind, haunted by the subtle threats lingering beneath the veneer of false kindness. As the other assistants bustled around setting up, Karina spotted Ashley and pulled her aside urgently. "Ashley, can I ask you something?" she whispered, casting a furtive glance around to ensure they weren't overheard. Ashley blinked but nodded. "Of course, what's up?" Karina drew in a shaky breath, hating how rattled she still felt. "It's about Lexi. Is she...has she seemed angrier than usual lately? More volatile or fixated on anything in particular?" Understanding dawned on Ashley's features as she immediately comprehended the root of Karina's concern. She placed a reassuring hand on Karina's arm, squeezing gently. "Oh honey, no, Lexi's been her typical demanding-yet-unbothered self," Ashley assured her in a low tone. "If