~HAZEL~

Finally, I walk back over to him, each step heavy with frustration and concern. He tries to pretend like everything is okay, the deception in his posture faltering just enough to reveal his vulnerability.

"I'm fine," he tells me hastily, before I can ask him anything, his voice strained.

I carefully close the distance between us, my fingertips trembling as I gently press the back of my hand against Ashton's forehead. My eyes widen in horror at the sudden heat radiating from ...