CHAPTER FIVE HUNDRED AND FIFTY NINE – REPARING THE RELATIONSHIP

Jasmine nodded, following him to their bedroom. Once inside, Marco turned to her, his expression serious. "I'm sorry," he said simply. "I've been pushing you away, trying to protect you. But I see now that was a mistake." Jasmine felt a glimmer of hope. "Go on." Marco took her hands in his. "You're right. We're partners. I shouldn't be keeping secrets from you. From now on, I promise to be honest about everything, no matter how difficult." "Even the cartel business?" Jasmine asked. Marco nodded. "Especially that. But Jasmine, you have to understand. This life... it's not easy. It's dangerous, and it's ugly sometimes. Are you sure you want to know everything?" Jasmine took a deep breath. "I'm sure. Whatever comes, we face it together." Marco pulled her into a tight embrace. "Together," he agreed. As they held each other, Jasmine knew their troubles were far from over. The Velasco threat still loomed, and the cartel life would always be fraught with danger. But for the first time