ASHLEY'S POV
“Ashley, are you going to be fine?” Austin asked.
“Yes, it's okay,” I said softly to Austin, extending my hand to get my jacket. “I'll go with him.”
He looked at me questioningly—his jaw set, his eyes darting to Micheal, who stood still by the door like some guard that followed me around. But then, Austin nodded slowly and stepped back. “You sure?”
“Yeah.” My tone was steady, though my insides were spinning. “Thanks for everything.”
I embrace him briefly, holding on for a few seconds before I let go. I picked up my bag and stepped outside without giving Micheal a glance. I heard him curse under his breath, but I ignored.
As I stepped outside, the night air seemed colder than it had been. Heavy with silence. Michael said nothing as he opened the passenger door for me
