Chapter48: A rocky start

It was the next morning, and as part of her usual routine, Ashleigh woke up at 6 am, feeling refreshed and ready to start the day. The silence as she got ready felt different; typically, Susan would assist her and update her on the morning's developments, while Mr. Atkinson would only appear for urgent matters. As Ashleigh approached her dresser, she carefully selected a pair of accessories and a simple necklace. However, when she reached the ring box, she hesitated. Her gaze softened as she opened the box, revealing the wedding ring with a delicate chain attached. Memories flooded back of Adrian placing it on her neck, insisting she wear it at all times. She also recalled their last conversation, which left a heaviness in her heart. "Is it necessary to wear the ring now?" she pondered, holding the box up to eye level and studying the sparkling princess-cut diamond. After a moment, she decided she didn't need to carry the identity of someone who didn't reciprocate. After all, she alrea