In that moment, just as Ashley's legs gave up, Jae's quick reflexes kicked in. With a firm grip, he reached out and caught her, preventing her from tripping.
Startled, Ashley looked up into Jae's concerned eyes.
Ashley: "Thanks."
She muttered, feeling a wave of relief as she steadied herself.
Jae: "No problem."
He replied with a small smile.
"You've been working too hard."
Ashley tried to walk again but found herself swaying.
Ashley: "I'm fine, really."
She insisted, but her legs didn't agree.
Jae: "Clearly."
He rolled his eyes slightly. Without hesitation, he scooped her up into his arms.
Ashley: "Hey, what are you doing?"
She protested weakly.
Jae: "Just making sure you get back safely."
He adjusted her comfortably.
"You need rest."
Ashley sighed, too tired to argue.
Ashley: "I can walk, you know."
Jae: "Sure you can. Just not right now."
He chuckled.
As he carried her back to their quarters, she couldn't help but feel grateful for his help.
Ashley: "You're really something, you know that?"
She mumbled.
Jae: "Just being a friend. Now get some sleep."
He smiled.
With that, he gently placed her on her bed and helped her with the sheets.
Jae: "Is there anything else I can help with?"
But before Ashley could respond, her eyes fluttered shut, and she dozed off, exhausted from the day's work.
he gently slimed at her
sat down beside her bed despite him coming from a royal family and kept his head on the mattress and dozed to sleep. he always cared about the girls and always helped them as much as he could. he tried to be obedient and as helpful as he could be.
meanwhile Amara and veronica finished their work and headed back to the room.
Amara and Veronica couldn't help but notice the growing bond between Ashley and Jae. As they observed the pair, they admired how considerate Jae was towards Ashley. Whether it was carrying her books, fetching her a cup of coffee, or simply making sure she had everything she needed, Jae's attention to Ashley's well-being was clear and constant.
Amara and Veronica exchanged glances, silently acknowledging the care and concern Jae showed.
They could see that his feelings for Ashley went beyond mere friendship.
Jae's eyes often followed Ashley with a gentle intensity, and his actions spoke of a deep respect and admiration.
Amara: "He really cares about her," she said softly, with a smile on her lips.
Veronica nodded in agreement.
Veronica: "Yeah, it's sweet to see how protective he is. It's like he's always looking out for her, making sure she's okay."
Amara chuckled.
Amara: "And Ashley seems to be warming up to him, too. She might not realize it yet, but I think she's starting to see him in a different light."
Veronica smiled.
Veronica: "It's nice to see. They make a good team. Jae's calm and patient nature really balances out Ashley's determination and energy."
As they continued to watch, it was clear to both Amara and Veronica that something special was developing between Ashley and Jae. It wasn't just about the research or their shared responsibilities; it was about two people growing closer, supporting each other, and finding comfort in each other's presence.
Veronica stopped thinking and decided to wake Ashley so she could eat something. As she approached Ashley and almost touched her to wake her up, she was startled when Jae suddenly grabbed her hand, with his senses sharp and alert.
Veronica froze as Jae's hand swiftly caught hers, his reaction catching her off guard.
Veronica: "Woah, Jae! You scared me," she whispered, her voice barely audible.
Jae's features softened as he comprehended the situation.
Jae: "My apologies, Veronica. I thought you were someone else," he said, releasing her hand gently.
Veronica took a deep breath, trying to calm her racing heart.
Veronica: "who else would it even be... anyways,It's fine. I should've announced myself," she replied, a nervous chuckle escaping her lips.
Jae nodded, a slight smile forming.
Jae: "No worries. I wasn't expecting someone to startle me like that," he explained, in his embarrassing tone.
Veronica gestured towards Ashley, still asleep in her bed.
Veronica: "I was just trying to wake Ashley up. She needs to eat," she explained.
Jae's concern shifted to Ashley.
Jae: "Is she alright?" he inquired, genuine worry evident in his voice.
Amara reassured him.
Amara: "Yeah, she's just exhausted from all the research. We've been working non-stop," she replied, sympathetically.
Jae nodded, understanding the situation.
Jae: "I'll help you wake her up," he offered, moving closer to Ashley.
Veronica smiled gratefully towards Amara.
Amara: "Thanks, Jae. She'll feel better after eating,".
Together, Jae and Veronica gently tried to wake Ashley up from her slumber. As Ashley blinked sleepily, her friends exchanged relieved smiles, knowing they were there for each other through any challenges they faced.