Chapter 18

A wry smile touched Ashleigh's lips. "One more thing, huh? Seems like Adrian's got a lot to tell me tonight." Settling back into the chair, she braced herself for another unexpected announcement.

"I've made arrangements for you to start college," he declared.

Ashleigh's eyes widened in surprise, then lit up with excitement. She snatched the tablet back from its stand, her voice trembling as she spoke.

"Are you serious? This isn't some kind of elaborate joke, is it?"

Adrian chuckled, his amusement evident. "No jokes, Ashleigh. It's true. But to get in, you'll need to take the entrance exams. That means enrolling in some tutoring classes." He relaxed back in his chair, gesturing towards something off-screen.

A moment later, Mr. Turner appeared, handing him a document. Adrian placed it on his desk.

"Which college are you interested in?" he asked, his voice softer than usual. "Mr. Turner put together a list of options."

The question acted like a key unlocking a dam within Ashleigh. She la