Chapter 22

Jasmine stepped into a classic-style restaurant with sparkling crystal chandeliers hanging from the ceiling and soft jazz music playing in the background. She had taken a moment to fix her hair before entering, trying to calm her suddenly racing heart. After Danzell had informed her that he would be meeting her mother, Evelyn, Jasmine felt a knot in her stomach.

As the restaurant door opened, the aroma of delicious food immediately filled her senses. Jasmine scanned the room for Evelyn and Eli, Danzell's mother, who had arrived earlier. In the corner of the room, she saw them sitting elegantly, as if waiting for an important moment. Swallowing hard, Jasmine hesitantly walked towards them.

"Hi, sweetie, you always look beautiful," greeted Eli with a warm, comforting smile. Eli, with her elegant silver hair, was always friendly and sincerely welcomed Jasmine. In contrast, Evelyn merely watched Jasmine's arrival with a blank, cold expression.

"Thank you, Aunt Eli," Jasmine replied softly