CHAPTER SIXTEEN – THE ROAD TO PARIS

Over the next few days leading up to the official exhibition opening, Jasmine basked in a state of determined tranquility, calmly walking each new wave of attendees through her pièces de résistance and fielding their fawning praise with humble gratitude. Lucinda Stone's sneering critique faded into an afterthought, rendered irrelevant by the swell of ebullient exaltations heaped upon Jasmine by viewers and critics alike. The night before the grand opening gala, Jasmine treated herself to a luxurious, recharging evening at her favorite spa, determined to be in pristine condition to celebrate the life-defining culmination of years of perseverance. She'd just slipped into a plush terrycloth robe after an invigorating eucalyptus body treatment when her phone chimed with a familiar text tone. "Almost time for the big debut! Just wanted to remind you how immensely proud I am of you and all you've achieved. You are a true inspiration. Can't wait to admire your phenomenal work in person!