chapter 47

After the confrontation, an uncomfortable silence settled between Adrian and Ashleigh. Adrian decided to spare Larry and the other staff from termination, as Ashleigh had requested, and departed for an extended business trip that same evening, before Ashleigh returned from her farewell party. The house felt emptier than usual for Ashleigh, and unable to bear the embarrassment, she decided to move into the hostel permanently, instructing Susan to pack her belongings accordingly.

As they arrived at Robin College, Susan announced, "We have arrived, Madame."

Ashleigh looked up from her device to see the college gates, marking the first verification point, where security would check her admission letter and orientation slip. Susan offered to handle the check-in process, but Ashleigh declined.

“That won't be necessary, Susan. I'm the student, after all. There's nothing special about me." She unbuckled her seatbelt and stepped out of the car, walking up to the security building to check hers