CHAPTER FORTY TWO – FIRE ALERT

Jasmine sat cross-legged on the floor of her apartment, a blank canvas propped up before her. Her brow was furrowed in concentration as she dabbed her brush into the vibrant shades of cerulean and crimson on her palette. So lost in the creative trance, she almost didn't notice the faint smell of something burning at first. Jasmine's nose crinkled as the acrid scent grew stronger. "That's odd..." she muttered, glancing around her studio apartment. Suddenly, a piercing wail burst through the silence - the unmistakable blare of the fire alarm. Jasmine's heart leapt into her throat. "Oh god, fire!" She shot up from the floor, her art supplies clattering in her haste. Think, think! She scanned the apartment, trying to remain calm. The heavy stench of smoke was rapidly filling the air now. Jasmine snatched up her purse and phone, then rushed to grab the duffel bag she used to carry her most precious art pieces and supplies. "My paintings! I can't leave them!" Her eyes welled up at the