Booking.com Denied Free Cancellation Despite Policy

I booked a 5-night stay at ALL Suite Apart & Hotel Paris through Booking.com for February 27 to March 4. I selected the option for free cancellation when making the reservation, but upon canceling, I received an email stating I would need to pay the full reservation amount of €435.44 as a cancellation fee.

The property claims the issue lies with Booking.com and directed me back to them. Booking.com, in turn, says the property is responsible. Meanwhile, a friend who booked the same hotel, dates, and room type successfully canceled for free. I even shared my friend's confirmation number (4563773223) with Booking.com to demonstrate the inconsistency, but no resolution has been provided.

This back-and-forth is unacceptable. I request immediate assistance to resolve this issue and honor the free cancellation policy. Please address this matter urgently.