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19 The village’s tourism initiative officially launched. Jasmine invited travel and food bloggers to experience the village.
Most houses retained their original structure, reinforced walls, some converted into guesthouses, others into restaurants. The village was redesigned to incorporate the natural beauty, with several viewing platforms built, recreating the splendor of the Historic Trade Trail, and engaging grandmothers to teach tourists heritage knitting and stone rubbing.
The first group of bloggers had a wonderful time, spending two or three days relaxing and enjoying the tranquil atmosphere.
Online promotion created a buzz, and the village’s tourism gradually gained popularity.
The second group consisted of employees from a renowned company on their annual retreat; everyone enjoyed their experience.
Soon, several tour groups approached for collaborations, with an increasing number of individual tourists. The village’s capacity was limited,
necessitating a reservation system.
Couples who had worked outside beard the news and returned, joining their elders in running their small shops.
Educational and medical facilities were built; everyone in the village was happy.
“It’s wonderful. Your efforts are truly worthwhile,” Benjamin said, standing beside Jasmine at the window, watching the tourists pass by. His praise was sincere.
“Everyone contributed. I feel very fulfilled,” Jasmine smiled, then her expression sobered.“We should go. There are other places that need us.”
Jasmine wanted to use her abilities to help more people, to ensure more children had access to education and the elderly had support. Okay, let’s go,” Benjamin’s lips curved upward. Their relationship had subtly changed. At least she no longer shooed him away. The day before Jasmine’s departure, Adrian arrived.
Granny Beth ushered him in, warning Jasmine cautiously.“Girl, this one’s not a good guy. Stay away from him. I’m right outside. Call me need anything.”
Jasmine smiled faintly, looking at Adrian standing in the doorway.
if you
Seeing him again, she was calmer than expected, as if encountering a stranger.
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They hadn’t seen each other for almost two years. Adrian had changed. He’d lost weight, his face showing fatigue and weariness, his eyes lacking their former brightness. He seemed shrouded in darkness.
He was no longer the radiant, gentle man who made her heart flutter with a single glance.
“Long time no see, Mr.Thorne,” Jasmine said calmly, her voice flat.
Adrian’s eyes instantly reddened. Jasmine’s detachment pierced his heart.
He’d imagined their reunion countless times, expecting her to cry, to rage, to hysterically question his deception…
He hadn’t anticipated this indifference.
As if she’d never loved him.
“Jasmine… don’t do this to me,” he croaked, his voice strained.
“Mr. Thorne, we were never married. I’m not your wife. It’s over between us. Whatever you want to say, I don’t want to hear it,” Jasmine interrupted.
He shook his head violently, rushing towards Jasmine, reaching out to embrace her.
“No, you’re my wife. I love you.”
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Jasmine took a step back, slapping him.“Mr. Thorne, please respect yourself!”
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