CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND FORTY FOUR – AN EX FROM COLLEGE DAYS

Jasmine hummed softly to herself as she added the final touches to her latest painting, a vibrant abstract piece that seemed to pulse with energy and emotion. Her loft studio had become a sanctuary of sorts, a place where she could lose herself in the creative process and find solace through her art. A sudden knock at the door startled her from her reverie. Furrowing her brow, she set down her paintbrush and crossed the room, peering through the peephole. Her breath caught in her throat at the sight of the tall, familiar figure standing on the other side. "Ryan?" she murmured in disbelief, her heart skipping a beat. Ryan Callahan had been her first great love, a passionate romance that had blossomed during their college days. However, their relationship had ultimately crumbled under the weight of differing ambitions and a messy breakup that had left Jasmine's heart in pieces. She hadn't seen or spoken to him in over a decade. Steeling herself, Jasmine unlatched the door and pulled