As Ashley gradually wakes up and starts to eat, Jae notices that ashley is struggling to stay awake. he gets Concerned for her well-being and tells that they could take a short break from their research to get some fresh air.
Jae: "Ashley, maybe we should take a break from studying and go for a walk outside. It might help clear our minds."
Ashley nods sleepily,
Ashley "i think so too... "
seeing the exhaustion evident in Ashley's eyes
Veronica: "That sounds like a great idea. We could all use a break."
They gathers their belongings and heads outside, enjoying the peaceful surroundings of the university campus. As they walk, Jae shares his own experiences and making them laugh with his witty remarks.
As they walk around the university campus, Ashley starts to feel more awake and alert, thanks to the fresh air and light exercise. She finds herself enjoying the peaceful surroundings, and her mind begins to clear as they chat and laugh together.
Jae notices the change in Ashley
Jae: "Ashley, why don't we find a quiet spot to finish up the last few things for our project? I think we're almost done, and it would be great to wrap it up before heading back."
Ashley: "yea i was actually thinking the same too"
Amara and veronica feeling motivated by Jae's suggestion. They find an area under a shady tree, where they can spread out their notes and laptops.
Veronica: "Look at them go. They make quite the team, don't they?"
Amara nods in agreement, smiling at the sight of them.
As Ashley finishes the last of her work, she leans back against the tree, feeling a wave of exhaustion wash over her. Jae notices her fatigue on her face
Jae: "Hey, why don't you rest for a bit? You've been working so hard."
Ashley: "you sure?" for which Jae nods his head
leaning her head against his shoulder as she closes her eyes. Jae feels concerned for her, but also a sense of reassurance knowing that she's finally getting some rest.
Veronica and Amara smile at the sight of them, recognizing the deep bond between them.
soon they all gather their things and leave as they had to report the updates to the director the next day
THE NEXT MORNING
Ashley wakes up and prepares for the day ahead, she reflects on the progress they've made so far and that she had to meet the directior.
Ashley: "Morning, everyone! Ready to report?"
Veronica: "Definitely! I've got all our notes organized and ready to go."
Amara: "Same here. I'm curious to see what new discoveries we'll make today."
Meanwhile, Jae is already up, eager to assist Ashley and the rest of the team in any way he can. With his determination, he heads to the research base, ready to tackle the day's tasks.
Jae: "Good morning, Ashley. How are you feeling today?"
Ashley: "Much better"
Jae: "Glad to hear it. Just let me know if you need any help."
As they gather in the director's office, Ashley pulls Jae aside to have a private conversation.
Ashley: "Jae, I appreciate your help, but I need to be honest with you. The director can't know about your presence here. It's against the rules"
Jae: "I understand, Ashley. I'll keep a low profile and stay out of sight."
Ashley: "Thank you. I know you want to help, but we have to be careful. The director would never approve if he knows anything so just nod to what ever we say and think before answering"
Veronica: "but why are we even taking him to the director? cant we just hide him and pretend as if it was all normal?"
Amara: " veronica its a university... it has CCTV of course he can monitor us"
Ashley: "Exactly! And I'm assuming he even noticed Jae on the ground that day"
Veronica:" yea' maybe"
Ashley: "anyways veronica, did u do what i asked?"
Veronica:" yea all done, don't worry"
Amara gets confused, wondering what task Ashley had assigned to Veronica. But before she could ask, the doors to the director's office opened, and they all filed in to meet him.
As they entered the director's office, the director offers a warm welcome to the girls. However, his gaze lingered on Jae, a hint of curiosity evident in his eyes.
Director: "good morning girls.... And who might this be?"
Before Ashley could respond, Veronica jumped in with a quick reply.
Veronica: "Oh, he's Ashley's boyfriend."
Amara and Jae were confused as they didn't know veronica would say something like that, while Ashley herself seemed taken aback by Veronica's sudden declaration. Nonetheless, she played along to what veronica said, forcing a smile as she nodded in agreement.
Director: "Ah, I see."
To Ashley's relief, the director's response seemed nonchalant, as if he had expected as much. Ashley couldn't help but wonder how he already knew about Jae.
Ashley: "How did you...?"