"Hi Jasmine," my mother said, her voice trembling as she approached me.
I stood frozen, unsure how to react. My mind raced with questions. How did she escape? Why did she abandon us? What secrets did she keep?
My father broke the silence. "Jasmine, go easy on your mother. She's been through a lot."
I turned to him, seeking answers, but his expression remained guarded.
My mother took slow steps closer, tears streaming down her face. "Jasmine, I'm so sorry. I never meant to leave you."
"I was taken by Carusso," she explained. "He wanted leverage against your father."
My father nodded in confirmation.
"What did he want from you?" I pressed on.
My mother hesitated. "He wanted the goods and the money. Your father had discovered his true intentions."
The room fell silent.
Suddenly, my phone buzzed. Benjamin's name flashed on the screen.
"Jasmine, it's Benjamin. Luciano's awake and asking for you."
