Chapter 31

Ashleigh recoiled from Adrian's touch, her gaze darting nervously away. Her heart pounded a frantic rhythm, threatening to escalate her fever.

"You're just trying to distract me from my frustration," she accused, her voice tight with suspicion. Adrian continued to smile, unfazed by her accusation.

"Actually," he countered nonchalantly, settling into the plush pink chair, "I simply wanted to get a closer look at you, like I did this morning. You seem to be the one reading ulterior motives into my actions."

However, a hint of mischief danced in his eyes as he met her gaze. She couldn't ignore the playful spark that contradicted his seemingly earnest words.

"Regardless," Ashleigh said, her tone softening slightly, "I trust you'll keep your promise this time, Mr. Cagliari. But will it be possible to schedule the examination sometime after this week? Robin College is notoriously selective with their admissions."

"Why waste your energy worrying about that right now?" Adrian replied, his voi