Chapter 670
Chapter 670:
As Ashton watched Alisha walk away, he felt torn. He knew she was a good person, and even someone as clueless as him in matters of the heart couldn’t ignore the warmth of her enthusiasm.
However, Rosalie had been his steadfast support during his darkest days, and the thought of hurting her was unbearable.
Yet, the complexity of harboring feelings for both Alisha and Rosalie was a scenario he knew Rosalie would never accept.
How could he reconcile Alisha’s affection with his commitment to Rosalie?
Alisha had risked her life for him. To simply distance himself from her now would weigh heavily on his conscience.
Ashton was lost in thought when his phone suddenly rang from his pocket.
He quickly collected his thoughts, pulled out his phone, and saw his grandfather Ennis’ name on the screen.
When Ashton saw the incoming call was from his grandfather, he took a moment to calm his restless thoughts before answering.
As soon as he picked up, Ennis’ laughter came through the speaker, full of cheerfulness.
“Excellent job, you rascal! The news from Staville reached me. Snaring that many corrupt officials in one go is quite the feat! Also, I understand your strategy resulted in virtually no casualties this time. It seems you, who were once a headache with your unruly antics, are showing real growth. With such commendable work, I believe a reward is due. What would you like?”
With a chuckle, Ashton replied, “Grandpa, I’m honored by your words. I simply fulfilled my duties. As a Baldwin, one of the four guardian families, it’s expected of me. Furthermore, without collaborative support from various quarters in Staville, this operation wouldn’t have been as successful. Let’s skip the reward this time.”
Ennis responded with a hearty laugh, “In our family, we strictly enforce rewards as much as punishments. When you slipped up previously, we imposed strict sanctions. Now, given that your efforts have largely freed Staville’s people from a grim fate, you certainly merit something in return. Since you’re reluctant to ask for a specific reward, I’ll remove all restrictions previously placed on you. You’re now free to access all family resources and connections as before. You’ve also passed your trial. Why not come home for a bit? Alister and Adrien often speak of you. Adrien, particularly, regrets that you endangered yourself in Inewood to apprehend the assassin who targeted him. It’s time for a reunion.”
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Ashton paused, reflecting on his journey, and then said, “I appreciate it, Grandpa, but I haven’t truly completed my trial yet. I’ve promised Gustave that I would capture Fraser, the Dark Night Organization’s Dark Hall envoy, and I still have tasks to finish before I can return to Tacland.”
Ennis sighed and said, “You’re as stubborn as ever, but your current mission is indeed crucial. Gustave updated me about it not long ago. The situation isn’t urgent, though. You could still visit home briefly before continuing your efforts.”
Ashton remained resolute and said, “Fraser remains at large, and as long as he is free, the threat persists. I must apprehend him first. Other discussions will have to wait.” Ashton longed to reunite with his family and visit his mother’s grave, having been away for almost three years, but he recognized that the timing was off.
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