CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND NINETY NINE – THE TASTE OF LOVE

The anticipation was palpable as they made their way out of the city, Gordon's beat-up truck navigating the winding roads and scenic byways with an easy familiarity. Jasmine found herself utterly entranced by the ever-changing landscape that unfolded beyond the rolled-down windows, her eyes drinking in the verdant hills and sun-dappled valleys that seemed to stretch on endlessly. It was a world away from the concrete canyons and bustling energy of the city she called home, a respite from the relentless noise and chaos that had nearly consumed her not so long ago. As the miles fell away beneath the tires, Jasmine felt the last vestiges of her burdens sloughing away, replaced by a sense of lightness and anticipation that buoyed her spirit. At last, Gordon guided the truck onto a narrow dirt road, the path winding through a dense thicket of towering pines and gnarled oaks. Just when Jasmine thought she couldn't possibly contain her curiosity any longer, the trees parted to reveal a s