CHAPTER THREE HUNDRED AND TWENTY SIX – A PROMOTION

Jasmine sat nervously in Don Cesaro's opulent study, her fingers tracing the intricate patterns on the armrest of her chair. The Don's piercing gaze seemed to bore into her very soul as he leaned forward, his weathered hands clasped on the mahogany desk. "Jasmine," he began, his voice a low rumble, "I have given much thought to your situation. It is clear that you cannot remain hidden in this compound indefinitely." Jasmine's heart raced. "What do you mean, Don Cesaro? Are you... are you asking me to leave?" The Don's eyebrows arched. "No, no, my dear. Quite the contrary. I have a proposition for you – one that will allow you to hide in plain sight." "I don't understand," Jasmine replied, her brow furrowing. Don Cesaro leaned back in his chair, a small smile playing at the corners of his mouth. "I own many businesses in town, as you know. One of them – a small art gallery and frame shop – is in need of new management. I propose that you become its co-manager." Jasmine's eyes wide