~HAZEL~

“You cannot stop me," I firmly declare to Ashton, standing my ground. "I'm going." My voice leaves no room for argument, and I try to turn away from his angry gaze with determined urgency when he opens his mouth to respond.

I notice the irritation flashing across his face, a clear sign that he's upset about my refusal to listen to him. His jaw tightens as he struggles to find words. Even though it annoyed me that he was upset, it bothered me even more that I had to stay here ...