CHAPTER 50

"Always there for you." Somehow, that sentence made Asher feel awkward. He cleared his throat, trying to ease the strange feeling that crept into his mind. His eyes tried to avoid direct eye contact with Alicia. This was the first time Asher had received attention and gentle treatment from the opposite sex. In the past, most of them had looked at him dismissively.

Meanwhile, Alicia smiled slightly, enjoying the moment. There was a sense of joy in her heart as she teased the quiet Asher. Since getting to know Asher and understanding who he was, Alicia had felt a strange affection growing for him.

Alicia moved to tidy up the remains of Asher's lunch. Then she looked back at him. "Are you hot, Asher?" she asked, noticing Asher's flushed face.

"Huh?" Asher was stunned, unsure of how to respond. The loosened tie felt unhelpful, and the atmosphere seemed even more stifling. It wasn't because he was hot, but because he was flustered.

"Isn't it cold? It's winter now," said Alicia, moving her