CHAPTER THREE HUNDRED AND FIFTY NINE – PEACE REIGNS AGAIN

The next few days were a whirlwind of activity. With Tony gone and the truth about Blackstone's interference out in the open, the staff of Cesaro's Bistro rallied together with a newfound sense of purpose. Jasmine watched with pride as Antonio and Maria, once bitter rivals, began to collaborate on a new menu that blended traditional techniques with innovative flavors. "I never thought I'd see the day," Marco murmured to Jasmine as they observed the two chefs working side by side, deep in discussion over a new dish. Jasmine nodded, a small smile playing on her lips. "It's amazing what people can accomplish when they have a common enemy." But even as the kitchen found its rhythm again, Jasmine couldn't shake the feeling that they were living on borrowed time. Blackstone Culinary Group was still out there, no doubt planning their next move. Her suspicions were confirmed late one evening, as she and Marco were closing up the restaurant. The phone rang, and Jasmine answered, expecting i