Ch-19 : Stranded 

Ashley's POV:

I follow Ethan outside, quickening my pace and almost rushing to avoid any unwanted attention or any more comments about our relationship.

On reaching the company doors, I spot Ethan's car that is waiting right outside, and he's already inside by the time I catch up. I duck my head and slide into the car, feeling a trace of nervousness.

The driver shuts the door, and the car starts moving, leaving the Waverly Group's driveway merging into the traffic.

It takes me some time to muster my courage, but I finally clear my throat.

"I don't know how else to say it, but I sincerely wanted to thank you, because I wouldn't have been able to attend the shareholders' meeting otherwise."

I steal a glance at Ethan, expecting some sort of reaction, but he just continues staring ahead, his expression unreadable. Surprisingly, his silence feels like a slight improvement from his reaction yesterday.

Feeling somewhat encouraged by his lack of response, I continue, my voice barely above