CHAPTER THREE HUNDRED AND EIGHTY THREE – RUNNING AWAY FROM HER PROBLEMS

Jasmine's heart raced as she approached the Bistro, excitement bubbling in her chest at the prospect of reopening after the tumultuous gang war. The street was quiet, the early morning sun casting long shadows across the pavement. As she rounded the corner, her blood ran cold. Detective Collins and his men were walking purposefully towards the Bistro, their faces set with grim determination. "No, no, no," Jasmine whispered, ducking behind a parked car. She peered around the bumper, watching as Collins gestured to his team. "Spread out," he barked. "She's bound to show up soon." Jasmine's mind raced. How had they found her? She thought she'd been careful, but clearly, she'd underestimated Collins' resources. A hand touched her shoulder, and Jasmine nearly screamed. "Easy, it's me," Marco whispered, crouching beside her. "Marco! What are you doing here?" He nodded towards the police. "I saw them coming. Figured you might need backup." Jasmine's heart swelled with affection, but