Chapter 80: The Unexpected Call

Ashley’s POV

I had barely set down my phone down when it buzzed in my hand again. For a brief second, I thought it might be Liv calling, maybe to check in on me. But the name on the screen wasn’t hers.

Annabel.

I hesitated before answering. Andreas’ sister had been nothing but kind to me since I took on Ashton’s life, and the guilt of deceiving her weighed heavy on me every time we spoke. She was under the impression I was Ashton, her sister-in-law, and I hated lying to her the most. But what choice did I have? I dreaded the look of disappointment she would have when she found out the truth in a couple of days.

Taking a deep breath, I answered. “Hey, Annabel.”

“Ashton!” Her voice was frantic, almost breathless, immediately putting me on edge. “I—sorry to bother you, but I—” She cut herself off, clearly struggling with whatever it was she needed to say.

“Annabel, it’s okay. What’s going on?” I asked gently, already sensing the panic bubbling under her words.

“I—I have my play tonight,”