Accusation

Amidst the flurry of activity as the lab workers scrambled to relocate their facilities, the atmosphere crackled with tension, palpable even amidst the facade of efficiency. Every movement seemed choreographed, every word exchanged laden with unspoken apprehension. It was in this charged environment that Patrick Barry made his presence known, his imposing figure casting a shadow over the room.

Patrick's eyes bore into Ashley, his gaze penetrating as he sought answers to the questions burning in his mind. "Where were you, Ashley?" he demanded, his voice a cold blade cutting through the air. "You vanished when Jack initiated his attack."

Ashley met Patrick's piercing gaze with unwavering composure, her mask of neutrality firmly in place. "I had some personal errands to attend to," she explained calmly, her tone betraying none of the turmoil swirling within her.

Patrick's skepticism lingered, his suspicion palpable in the air. "Personal errands?" he repeated, his voice tinged with doubt.