Chapter 71
Chapter 71:
Upon hearing that Selena’s condition had worsened, Ashton immediately agreed to visit Rosalie’s home. He wrapped up his remaining schoolwork and headed to Rosalie’s apartment.
As soon as he pressed the doorbell, Rosalie herself opened the door.
“Come in, Ashton. Selena is waiting for you,” she said, her voice betraying no urgency, suggesting that Selena’s condition might not be critical.
Ashton entered, wearing a relieved smile. “I was quite worried about Selena, so I rushed over after finishing up at school. You seem quite calm, though. It’s not too serious, I hope p>
Rosalie nodded as they walked into the living room, where Ashton was taken aback to find another man he had never met before.
The stranger, a young man of Ashton’s age with a striking presence, momentarily lost his warm expression upon seeing Ashton but quickly regained his composure. Although he managed to look relaxed, internally, he was tense. It was his first time witnessing Rosalie inviting another man into her home.
Having had feelings for Rosalie, he couldn’t help but view Ashton as a potential rival.
The man’s eyes narrowed slightly as he stood and offered his hand. “Hello, I’m Fraser Horton. Nice to meet you p>
Ashton, not overthinking the interaction, shook his hand and introduced himself. “Ashton Baldwin p>
He experienced a subtle tightness in Fraser’s handshake and noticed a fleeting, icy smile. Though brief, Ashton detected the animosity in Fraser’s gaze.
Yet Fraser’s expression swiftly reverted to its usual demeanor, and he loosened his grip. With a continued smile, Fraser shared, “Rosalie and I have been childhood friends. If my reason for visiting weren’t to check on Selena, Rosalie wouldn’t have let me in. I admit, I’m a bit envious that she invited you p>
His tone was light, almost teasing, yet his emphasis on “childhood friends” clearly showed his intention.
Rosalie, however, remained composed. She glanced at Fraser and admonished, “Fraser, let’s keep things clear. You’re like a brother to me. Let’s not foster any misunderstandings p>
Then, turning to Ashton with a warm smile, she added, “Don’t worry about Fraser; he’s always been a bit of a tease. Actually, I picked up the ingredients for the dishes you cooked for Selena and me last time. I’ve been practicing, and today, I want you to taste how I’ve done p>
Ashton responded playfully, “Then I guess I’ll have to supervise. Selena mentioned you sometimes get your sugar and salt mixed up p>
Rosalie chuckled, countering, “That was a one-time mix-up. It won’t happen again today p>
While the mood remained light and jovial, Fraser observed the scene, a forced smile on his lips. Internally, bitterness was taking root, his gaze turning icy. Hidden from view beneath the table, his hands balled into fists, seething with the desire to confront Ashton directly.