~ASHTON~

"There is something I want to ask you before I leave," she finally admits softly, her voice trembling slightly, with a cautious expression etched deep in her eyes that reflect a tumult of unspoken fears and concern.

The tone of her voice makes me tense a bit, sensing the weight of her unspoken questions. I wasn't sure exactly what she wanted to say, but I could feel the heaviness in her silence, hinting at a lingering uncertainty she was hesitant to voice.

What exactly did ...