CHAPTER FIVE HUNDRED AND SEVENTY SEVEN – ALEJANDRO’S TEMPTATION

"Where are you going?" Jasmine asked, her voice trembling. Marco paused, his hand on the doorknob. "I need some time to think. About us, about our future. You should do the same." The door slammed behind him, leaving Jasmine alone in the sudden, deafening silence of their apartment. She sank onto the couch, her mind a whirlwind of conflicting emotions. How had everything gone so wrong? The next morning, Jasmine arrived at the studio early, hoping to avoid both Alejandro and the curious eyes of her staff. She needed time to think, to figure out a way forward that wouldn't cost her everything she held dear. As she unlocked the front door, however, she was surprised to find the lights already on. Cautiously, she made her way to her office, where she found Alejandro waiting for her. "Jasmine," he said, standing as she entered. "I hope you don't mind. I wanted to catch you before anyone else arrived." Jasmine sighed, setting down her bag. "Alejandro, I thought I made myself clear last