Chapter 42 - Can't Evade The Question...

"The group is called EXODUS, why are you asking?" Ashley couldn't help but wonder.

"Did they just go on a tour in the kingdom of Stonasia? I'm watching them right now, and I thought I heard the reporter say that. I'm just curious." Ann said nonchalantly, she didn't want her friend to get the wrong idea with her questioning.

"To be honest with you, I have no idea where they are touring right now. I have been so busy with so many things right now that I don't even know what day it is. Hahaha!" Ashley chuckled. However, what she said was true. She had been flying in and out of Japan for business.

Since all the children were now grown up, Tanaga let her go back into the business, and they now ran the THJ group side by side. She had been appointed President of the THJ Marine Department in Japan and the USA, while Tanaka, her brother-in-law, was the CEO for the whole group.

Chairwoman Hanada had since retired, and Tanaga had taken over as the Chairman of the entire THJ Group.

"Anyway, did you talk to the girls lately?" Ashley changed the subject. She could sense that Ann was irritated for some reason.

"That's actually what I'm calling you about, I just spoke with Ava, and she told me that EXODUS is at their school, and they were chosen to be the ambassadors," Ann said, but it sounded like she wasn't too happy about the arrangement.

Ashley, on the other hand, was ecstatic hearing the news that Ashton was in Stonasia. If Ashton met Ava and the two hit it off, there's still a chance that they can get together since James wasn't interested in her. She had a wide grin plastered on her face when she spoke.

"What does Ava think of Ashton? Did she not like him? Ohhh, I'm kind of hoping that she will be interested in him. Just think... We still have a chance to be in-laws." Ashley laughed.

Ann got to thinking after hearing what Ashley said, and her eyes brightened with the idea. She already lost hope when Ava adamantly informed them that she would rather die than marry James.

But then, that was a long time ago, and she probably already forgot all about it. She was only five years old, and a lot has changed since then. However, if by chance she liked Ashton... Why not? Ann's frame of mind changed about scolding the people in charge of the Royal Academy with that thought.

"Hmmm, it is not a bad idea. But I think it's best we just let them get to know each other on their own. We shouldn't meddle in their affairs, or it could go sour again just like when they were little." The two mothers agreed and happily continued chatting. Unfortunately, Ann forgot about Arria, who was engrossed watching the concert instead of doing her homework.

===

Back in the Royal Academy, Pearl was over the moon. With EXODUS appearing on her live stream, her followers increased tremendously. However, she still had her face covered to not divulge her true identity.

How she wished that she could take it off and show the whole world her beautiful young face... Unfortunately, if her parents ever found out that she does live streams, she would be dead for sure. So, it's a no-no!

Akira and Ava both wore face masks just in case some of the Royal Academy students viewed the live stream. It's to protect their identities.

While everyone was enjoying themselves, Ashton took the opportunity to have a word with Ava. Although she seemed to be having fun, he could tell that it's only for show. He was thinking that she was doing that to get rid of being embarrassed for what just happened.

He slowly sneaked in closer to Ava from behind and whispered to her while no one noticed, "Do you want to go get some fresh air?" He asked, making sure no one heard him.

Ava contemplated for a moment while looking around if anyone was paying any attention to them. Then she remembered that Ashton didn't answer her question yet about his relationship with big brother. She decided to agree and nodded in agreement. Without the others realizing it, the two left and sneakily went outside to the garden.

===

The moon was full, and it was very nice outside. The weather was just right, with a nice breeze touching their skin as they stood gazing at the moon that was brightly shining on them.

No one spoke for a moment. Ava was slightly nervous, while Ashton didn't know where to begin. It was eerily quiet; only the sound of the wind blowing could be heard.

After some time, Ashton finally found his voice. "Ava..." However, "Ashton..." They both said in unison and began laughing out loud.

"Hahaha! Hahaha! You go ahead!" Said Ashton while still chuckling.

"Earlier before dinner, I had asked you a question. Do you still remember?" She couldn't look him in the eyes. Instead, she swiftly averted her gaze elsewhere after speaking.

He couldn't answer right away. He knew exactly what she was talking about, but he didn't really know how to respond to the question. He contemplated if he should react to her this time or not.

"I'm sorry! Could you repeat your question? Unfortunately, I couldn't recall what we were talking about earlier; I was so immersed in the beauty of the garden that I had forgotten."

However, that didn't deter her from repeating it once more; she wanted to know why big brother suddenly disappeared after for no apparent reason. If Ashton was close with him, he was probably still in touch with him or at least knows how to get in touch with him.

"I asked you if you know who big brother is? The one I play video games with. Do you know him?" Her puppy eyes were looking straight into his eyes, and he couldn't avert his gaze.

"Ahhh, that question. You see..." The wind was blowing, but Ashton started perspiring like crazed...

~~~o~~~

Author's note:

I just want to inform all my wonderful readers that on the 26th of August, the book will be going premium. You all know what it means, chapters will be locked.

I hope that you continue supporting the story.

Thank you!

AJZHEN