The worst part was how Ashley seemed to read her like an open book, catching on without a single clue. That sympathetic look in Ashley’s eyes—God, it was almost unbearable.

“Hey… why don’t you crash at my place tonight?” Ashley finally broke the silence, her voice soft but steady.

Normally, Valerie would’ve jumped at the invite. But tonight, something inside her resisted. She forced a smile, trying to keep it light. “But, Ash… I’ve got my own place, you know.” ...