Chapter 568
Chapter 568:
Ashton thought he might be overthinking, but he felt it was important to have a clear conversation with Alisha.
Therefore, after a busy day, he caught up with her just as she was getting ready to leave after helping him.
He saw the look of anticipation on her face, which made him pause briefly before he explained, “Alisha, my actions that day were strictly to ensure your safety, nothing beyond that. Honestly, I’m in a committed relationship, and we’re quite content. I’m concerned that if my girlfriend learns how often you’ve been helping here, it might cause some misunderstandings.”
Although Alisha had picked up on Ashton’s courteous behavior lately, his direct words still left her with unexpected disappointment.
Yet, unsure if her feelings toward Ashton were of a romantic nature, she kept her poise and offered him a smile.
“Why would you think that? I’ve been assisting you merely as my way of showing gratitude for saving my life. However, with your busy schedule, I’ve not yet had the chance to ask how you’d prefer to be thanked.”
Ashton, somewhat aware of Alisha’s efforts to stay poised, returned the smile. “They say the best thanks don’t need words, just the thought is enough. But if you really want to show your gratitude, I’m free tomorrow. How about treating me to a meal?”
Her eyes shining, Alisha quickly agreed, “Absolutely! It’s a deal. Just don’t bail on me!”
With a bounce in her step that reflected her youthful excitement, Alisha hurried out of the room before Ashton could respond further.
The following day, Ashton arrived at the mall entrance right on time for his meeting with Alisha, following the directions she had provided.
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He spotted her immediately—she was already there, waiting. Alisha wore light makeup that subtly highlighted her features, making her even more striking.
Dressed in a casual white T-shirt with a playful dog print and a pair of stylish denim overalls, Alisha looked effortlessly charming. Her shoulder-length hair was pulled back into a ponytail, lending her a youthful, energetic vibe that drew admiring glances even from those walking by with their partners. Just as Ashton was about to greet her, he noticed someone else attempting to strike up a conversation with Alisha, but she paid them no heed.
Spotting Ashton, her face lit up with a warm, welcoming smile.
“Why are you here so early? I thought I was late when I spotted you,” Ashton remarked, a playful tone in his voice.
“I just arrived, actually,” Alisha responded with a laugh, her ponytail swaying with the movement.
Ashton noticed a few beads of sweat on her face, and without thinking, he pulled out a tissue and gently wiped her cheek. “You don’t look like someone who just arrived. You’ve been waiting a while, haven’t you?”
His gesture was both reflexive and chivalrous.
Alisha’s cheeks turned a deep shade of red at the contact. She quickly took the tissue from him, wiping her face herself as she teased, “You said you didn’t want any misunderstandings… If someone saw that, they’d certainly get the wrong impression!”
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