Chapter 39
Chapter 39:
Ashton’s priority was to treat Selena now that she was showing signs of extreme pain. His calm demeanor and seasoned expertise guided his actions as he applied pressure to specific points along Selena’s neck.
Seeing that she was starting to feel better, Ashton quickly retrieved the silver needles he always kept on hand. With precise movements, he inserted a needle into a strategic point on the back of Selena’s neck.
Selena winced slightly from the sharp sensation, yet her intense coughing began to subside almost immediately. Moments later, the distress previously etched on her face gave way to relief.
Opening her eyes slowly, Selena gazed at Ashton with deep appreciation.
“Thank you, Ashton. You saved my life again,” she whispered gratefully.
Ashton simply nodded in response, maintaining a serious expression. He carefully gathered the needles and surveyed the surroundings. While Selena was now safe, it was clear that his quick application of acupuncture had been crucial. This technique specifically targeted and alleviated her allergic reaction just in time.
Without Ashton and his unique skills, another doctor might not have been able to respond as effectively without immediate access to anti-allergy medications. Any delay in treatment could have endangered Selena’s life further.
The realization that someone had deliberately put Selena at risk, exploiting her vulnerability, ignited a fierce anger in Ashton. After confirming that Selena’s condition was stable, Ashton began inspecting the remaining pastries she had eaten earlier. He discovered a powder on them that blended seamlessly with their color.
His suspicions immediately turned to one individual—Theo. Theo’s behavior earlier had been odd and out of place. Considering their shared family background, Theo would certainly be aware of Selena’s dietary limitations and allergies. As Ashton pondered the matter, the pieces started to fit together more clearly. Theo’s approach to greet Selena now seemed more like a calculated move to distract her while he tampered with the food.
Spotting Theo in the crowd, who was observing the unfolding events from afar, Ashton realized he needed to confront him immediately. “Theo, what can you tell me about these pastries? You added some sort of allergen to them, didn’t you?” he demanded.
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His loud voice was enough to startle Theo. He hastily responded, “Who are you? What are you talking about? I didn’t put any powder on anything!” But as he spoke, he caught himself and clamped his hand over his mouth, realizing his slip.
However, his gaffe was caught right away. Ashton’s expression shifted into a knowing smirk. He had deliberately used specific wording to trap Theo into a confession.
In stressful moments, people often inadvertently reveal truths they mean to hide, their immediate reactions betraying their deepest secrets.
“You mentioned the word ‘powder.’ How did you know it was a powder if you weren’t involved?” Ashton asked, his smile turning sinister as he caught Theo in his own words. The surrounding crowd began to whisper, piecing together the implications of the exchange they had just witnessed. Theo’s face lost color as he realized he had made a slip-up. Despite this, he was not ready to confess to anything.
“You’re talking nonsense. I’ve told you already, I know nothing!” he protested loudly.
The more Theo denied the claims, the more Ashton was convinced he was hiding something. Ashton maintained his composure and addressed him calmly. “Your admission is irrelevant. You handled ground nut powder, likely getting some on your clothes. We can run a quick test on your clothes, and we’ll find admissible evidence to prove it p>
Sweat began to bead on Theo’s forehead. He realized that trying to clean his clothes now would only admit guilt. Thus, he thought it would be best to stand firm. “Do you know who I am?” Theo puffed up. “Who are you to throw accusations against me? Regardless of your claims, find someone here who will support your accusations!” The surrounding crowd exchanged wary glances.
Theo’s status as a member of the influential Campbell family made them hesitant. What if he really didn’t do it? They considered the potential repercussions of aligning themselves against him. And supporting Ashton would mean that they would antagonize Theo.
Just when Theo’s confidence seemed to be restoring, a resolute, deep voice broke through, dismantling his brief moment of triumph.
“I will stand as a guarantor. If it turns out you are innocent, I will take full responsibility alongside Ashton p>