#Chapter 228: The Night Before The Exam

When my phone rang, I expected the worst. Another belittlement by my parents. A notice from the investigators. A threat from Joseph. Asher moved with me, never leaving my side as I approached my purse and removed my phone. It wasn’t a text, but an email. The email was from the Academy, a reminder about her upcoming transfer exam. I exhaled a long slow breath, simultaneously relieved and embarrassed. I showed Asher my phone. “Thank God,” he said, but then noticed the way I had my face all scrunched up. “What’s the matter?” “I feel so silly.” At once he pulled me into his arms. I melted against him instantly. “Don’t,” he said. “You’ve suffered several traumas, one right after the next. You need to be kinder to yourself. Give yourself a break.” “I know,” I said. “But it’s hard. I hate seeing shadows around every corner.” “Trust me to take care of the shadows. You just concentrate on your studies.” I could do that. At least, I hoped I could. Asher would do his best to keep me, and