CHAPTER FIVE HUNDRED AND EIGHTY NINE – THE ATMOSPHERE SETTLES

Marco's voice was a mix of pride and concern. "Are you okay? Do you need me to come down there?" Jasmine shook her head, even though he couldn't see her. "No, I'm alright. But I need you to call our lawyer. Jana's threatening to sue, and I want to be prepared." "On it," Marco replied. "And Jas? I'm proud of you. You did the right thing." As she hung up, Jasmine glanced at the clock. She had an hour before she had to face her team and explain everything. An hour to prepare for whatever fallout was coming. She stood up, straightening her jacket. It was time to take back control of her studio. An hour later, Jasmine stood at the front of the main studio space, facing her assembled team. The tension in the room was palpable, curious and worried faces looking up at her. She took a deep breath, steeling herself for what was to come. "Thank you all for coming on such short notice. I have an important announcement to make." The room fell silent, all eyes on her. Jasmine squared her shou