CHAPTER FOUR HUNDRED AND TEN – MONEY PROBLEMS

Just then, Marco walked in, a concerned look on his face. "Hey, everything okay? You look stressed." Jasmine managed a weak smile. "Just dealing with some budget issues. Nothing I can't handle." Marco raised an eyebrow. "Jasmine, come on. Talk to me. How bad is it?" Jasmine hesitated, then pulled up the spreadsheet. "See for yourself." Marco leaned over her shoulder, his eyes widening as he took in the numbers. "This... this can't be right. We're this far over budget?" Jasmine nodded grimly. "And it's getting worse. We've got suppliers threatening to pull out, shipments delayed, unexpected costs popping up left and right." Marco ran a hand through his hair. "Why didn't you tell me sooner?" "I thought I could handle it," Jasmine admitted. "I didn't want to worry you." Marco took her hand, squeezing it gently. "We're in this together, remember? No more keeping secrets, even if you think you're protecting me." Jasmine nodded, feeling a weight lift off her shoulders. "You're right