Chapter 40: A part of the family

Ashley’s POV

When we finally entered the room, the conversations came to an abrupt halt. Every eye turned to us, and the weight of their gazes was almost unbearable. I forced myself to stand tall, even as my heart threatened to burst out of my chest.

Clearing my throat, I mustered up a small, apologetic smile. "I’m so sorry for disappearing like that," I began, trying to keep my voice steady. "It seems... it’s my time of the month, and it caught me off guard."

I saw the understanding nods, the polite expressions that flickered across their faces. Except for Amarinth. She sat back in her chair, a sly smile playing on her lips, and then she snorted—a sharp, dismissive sound that cut through the tension like a knife.

"A shame," Amarinth said, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "I hope you aren't too disappointed by this, darling. Just try harder again next month."

Her words hit me like a slap, and I had to fight to keep my composure. I knew she was trying to provoke me, to make me feel smal