CHAPTER TWO HUNDRED AND TWENTY ONE – IN SEEDY PLACES

Jasmine and Gordon arrived in Detroit late one evening, the city skyline looming ahead like a shadowy sentinel. As they navigated the dimly lit streets, the stark contrast from the opulent world they were accustomed to became increasingly apparent. Jasmine peered out the car window, taking in the crumbling buildings and graffiti-covered walls. "This place is like a different universe," she murmured, tightening her grip on her purse. Gordon nodded grimly, his knuckles whitening on the steering wheel. "Welcome to the underbelly of Detroit. This is where the real action happens, far away from the glitz and glamour." They checked into a rundown motel on the outskirts of the city, the neon sign flickering ominously in the darkness. As they entered their room, Jasmine wrinkled her nose at the musty smell and stained carpet. "Charming," she remarked dryly, setting her luggage down gingerly. Gordon shrugged, unfazed by the squalid surroundings. "It's not the Ritz, but it'll do for now. We