CHAPTER 38

**Ashley**

I was confused by Simon's behavior. One moment he seemed to want me, and the next, he appeared annoyed by my presence. What kind of person was he?

The more I thought about it, the more my heart ached. I initially blamed Simon for the pain, but it only grew worse. I decided I needed rest to escape the discomfort. As night fell, I lay in bed, staring at the ceiling and counting the steps in my room to distract myself. I resolved to face whatever came next with courage and determination.

“Ashley! ASHLEY!!” The loud call jolted me awake. The shouting shattered my sleep, and I frowned deeply at the disturbance.

Madame Morticia burst into the room, her stern presence unmistakable even without words. Her silence was more unsettling than any noise. Unable to stay still, I sprang from the bed.

“Good morning. I see you’ve gotten lazy about waking up early,” she said sharply but with a hint of warmth.

“Leave me alone!” I groaned. Before I could say more, she tossed a pillow at me.

“Ug