Chapter 29

Ashley's POV

The scene unfolded before me like a whirlwind of confusion and intrigue. I found myself standing there, frozen, utterly unsure of what to do or say. All eyes were fixated on me, curious gazes filled with questions about why I was in the company of these apparent strangers. Though, from my perspective, they were no longer strangers. Mira, Janet, Penny, and the fourth one, whose name escaped me, had already introduced themselves, making them somewhat familiar faces. However, it hardly mattered since I knew I wouldn't be seeing them often. My real concern was not belonging here, and that sentiment extended to the group of friends who were now staring at me with a mix of confusion and concern.

Thorian, his tone increasingly serious, repeated his question, "Where are you going with them, Ashley?"

Caught in the crossfire of my own lies, I began, "Uhm, I was..."

Before I could finish concocting my excuses, Mira pushed me aside and positioned herself in front of Thorian, clearly