CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND SEVENTY THREE – MISSING BOYFRIEND

In her desperation, she resorted to stopping strangers, her lilting American tones standing out like a sore thumb amidst the rich tapestry of Australian accents. "Excuse me, have you seen a tall, handsome bloke wandering around?" she asked a weather-beaten vendor, her brow furrowed with concern. The man quirked an eyebrow, his lips twitching with amusement as he regarded her with a twinkle in his eye. "Can't say I have, love. But if I do, I'll be sure to point him your way." Jasmine flushed, recognizing the mirth in his expression and realizing how her words must have sounded. "Oh, no, I mean my husband. We got separated, and I can't seem to find him anywhere." The vendor's chuckle was warm and infectious as he leaned back, taking in her flustered state. "Ah, I see. Well, you might have better luck asking around like a local, eh? That accent of yours is like a beacon in this crowd." Jasmine couldn't help but join in his laughter, her cheeks still tinged pink as she nodded her than