Percy shook his head slowly, his expression filled with anguish.
"Percy, don't ever hurt yourself for someone else. You have to love yourself first."
Ashley raised her hand gently, wiping away the tears that pooled in the corners of his eyes. Each word was a struggle, laden with emotion.
"Even if your family hated me, I would've stayed by your side, no questions asked, but that was before you saw me with Gabriel in that hotel."
Overhearing this, Gabriel awkwardly touched his nose. Evelyn's sharp gaze turned toward him, but he pretended not to notice it.
Percy froze, tears welling up before spilling over his cheeks.
"Now, I can't do that ever again because you've seen the worst of me."
Ashley's voice cracked as tears streamed down her face. "I think it's best for the both of us to sa
