CHAPTER FIVE HUNDRED AND SIXTY NINE – MORE TO IT THAN MEETS THE EYE

She confided her concerns to Marco one night as they lay in bed. "I can't shake the feeling that there's more to this offer than meets the eye," she admitted. Marco propped himself up on one elbow, his expression serious. "Trust your instincts, Jasmine. In our world, if something seems too good to be true, it usually is." Jasmine nodded, grateful for his understanding. "I'll do some digging, see what I can find out about this Alvarez character." Her investigation, conducted discreetly with help from some of Marco's connections, revealed troubling information. Alvarez had ties to an international art theft ring, using legitimate investments as a cover for more nefarious activities. With a heavy heart but clear conscience, Jasmine declined Alvarez's offer. The financial struggle would continue, but at least her integrity - and the studio's - remained intact. Just as Jasmine thought she had navigated the worst of their challenges, a new crisis erupted. Liam, one of their most promisi