CHAPTER FOUR HUNDRED AND EIGHTY ONE – A CHANGE IN SCHEMES

As they sat there, watching the sky fade from gold to deep purple, Jasmine felt a strange mix of emotions. Fear of the unknown future, gratitude for Raquel's unexpected kindness, and a growing determination to survive this ordeal, no matter what it took. The next morning, as Jasmine helped Raquel with the day's sewing work, she noticed the older woman's hands trembling slightly as she threaded a needle. "Raquel?" she asked gently. "Are you alright?" Raquel looked up, her eyes shadowed with an emotion Jasmine couldn't quite place. "I'm fine," she said gruffly, but then hesitated. "It's just... I want you to know something, girl. Whatever happens, whatever we decide to do next... you have a home here. If you need it." Jasmine felt her throat tighten with emotion. "Thank you," she whispered, understanding the weight of what Raquel was offering. It wasn't just a place to stay, but a promise of safety, of belonging. Raquel nodded curtly, already turning back to her work. But Jasmine sa