Surface Tensions at the Show

The fashion show venue buzzed with the controlled chaos of final preparations. Makeup artists darted between models, stylists made last-minute adjustments, and Bruce orchestrated it all with a mixture of perfectionism and nervous energy. To anyone watching, it was just another high-profile Tokyo Fashion Week event, remarkable only for its innovative designs.

"Ten minutes, everyone!" Bruce called out, his voice carrying a hint of the wolf even in his human form. He caught sight of Mishka and hurried over, eyes bright with a mixture of excitement and lingering concern. "There you are! The network's running perfectly. The frequencies are more stable than ever."

Mishka nodded, forcing a smile. "That's great. Everything looks amazing."

"Are you okay? You seem distracted." He took her hand, his touch warmer than a normal human's.

"Just tired," she lied. "Didn't sleep much."