CHAPTER FIVE HUNDRED AND SEVEN – FINALLY, A NORMAL DAY

As for Jasmine, Lola, and Sofia, the ordeal had tested their partnership in ways they never could have imagined. But they had come through it stronger, their bond forged in the fires of adversity. They knew now, beyond any doubt, that they could weather any storm as long as they stood together. One quiet evening, as they sat in the office going over the day's receipts, Lola looked up with a wry smile. "You know," she said, "for a while there, I was starting to think we were cursed or something. Like we'd never have a normal day again." Jasmine chuckled, shaking her head. "Normal? In this place? I think we left normal behind a long time ago." Sofia leaned back in her chair, a contented smile on her face. "Maybe," she agreed. "But I wouldn't have it any other way. La Dulce Vida may be many things, but it's never boring." They all laughed at that, the sound of their mirth drifting out into the bakery where the last customers of the day were finishing their pastries and coffee. It was