CHAPTER TWO HUNDRED AND SEVENTY FOUR – ROCK CLIMBING

Back in her apartment, as she poured food into Max's bowl, Jasmine's phone buzzed with a text from Emily. "How's it going with the new roommate? Need any rescue?" Jasmine smiled, typing out a reply. "Actually, it's going great. Max is a sweetheart. And... I may have met someone at the park this morning." Emily's response was immediate and enthusiastic. "WHAT?! Details, now!" Jasmine laughed, settling onto the couch with Max at her feet. As she recounted her morning to Emily, she realized that for the first time in a long while, she was looking forward to what the future might hold. The next few days passed in a blur of new routines and small adventures. Jasmine and Max explored their neighborhood, discovering hidden gems like a quaint bookstore that allowed dogs and a cafe with the best pastries Jasmine had ever tasted. She found herself picking up her paintbrushes again, inspired by the vibrant life she saw around her on their daily walks. The half-finished canvases that had hau