Chapter 40

Ashton's POV “I wasn’t rude,” Rachel snapped. “I asked questions. They refused to answer and were clearly being evasive. I had to be stern.” “You didn’t have to be rude, you chose to be,” my mother replied, her voice like steel. “And how exactly were they lying? Or is it because you already had Damien’s version of the story and came here to push his agenda instead of seeking the truth?” Rachel said nothing. “You think your father can shield you because he sits on the Council,” she continued. “But once that video is played before the others, he won’t risk his own position to save you. He’ll have no choice but to let you face the consequences.” She took a step closer. “And don’t think for a second that your shallow understanding of Council law will save you. I promise you, I know those laws better than you ever will.” The flicker of fear in Rachel’s eyes was deeply satisfying. Her father, who had charged into the room so confidently, had stiffened midway through my mother’s response. He