Chapter 124
ASHAL
"I’m fine. No injuries were sustained."
"Are you sure?" I insist as Demi exhales softly. "I got worried after watching the news clip. It looked..."
"Ashal, I’m fine. Trust me on that."
"Ok. I’m sorry I can’t be there. There’s just too much stuff going on at home and I wanted a break to clear my head."
"Lucky you. I wish I could get a change of environment too." She sighs wistfully. "Anyway, thanks for checking up on me. I appreciate it."
"I wish I could do better. Hang in there."
After the call, I turn to Ashton. "I can’t believe she staged everything, and with Mila of all people??? I never even knew those two could strike up a conversation longer than sixty seconds much less hatch a plan."
Ashton is sprawled on my couch with a hand over his face. He has been upset since he came in this morning for obvious reasons. It’s weird but I am starting to understand how frustrating it all can be.
I spent the previous night ruminating over my alleged feelings for Madeline and while I want to believe that there’s nothing amorous about it, there exists a plethora of behaviors that belie my stance. I can’t help but wonder if I am so in love with Maddie that everyone else can tell except me.
Is this what it feels like to love someone you can’t have? There’s a hollow pit in my stomach that reeks of fear, sadness and frustration for the woman I can’t have. I now see what Ashton has been going through and honestly, I strongly commend him for his impeccable restraint all these months. I am going berserk not knowing how Maddi is faring right now. I can’t imagine being under the same roof with her and thinking straight. How does Ashton do it? How can he stand seeing Demi with Ashley? I could never.