I wiped sweat from my brow as I leaned back in my office chair, surrounded by fabric swatches and design sketches. The annual ball project was consuming every waking moment, but I loved the creative challenge. Designing the perfect centerpiece for Storm Crest Pack's most prestigious event was a responsibility I took seriously.
My phone buzzed with a notification, but I ignored it. I'd been getting strange alerts all morning – probably Seraphina spamming our group chat again. I smiled at the thought of my best friend, always eager to share the latest gossip.
The fabric sample in my hands was exquisite – deep crimson with gold threading that caught the light perfectly. It would make a stunning accent for the main hall decorations. As I made notes on my tablet, another notification came through.
With a sigh, I finally checked my phone. It wasn't Seraphina but Orion.
*Heading out for business meetings. Will be gone for two days. Don't work too hard on those designs, Elara.*
