Bella's POV
The tension in the room was noticeable, and I could feel it weighing on me. Derek's face was contorted with anger, but I couldn't for the life of me figure out why. I turned my attention to the kind man standing beside me, and his warm smile provided a stark contrast to Derek's sour expression.
"What are you doing here?" Derek asked, annoyance dripping from his words.
"He just wanted to make sure I get back home safely," I replied, speaking up for the man named Asher. Derek's gaze turned toward me, and it was anything but friendly.
"I need you to get him out of here right now!" Derek demanded, his voice filled with authority.
"Asher! You're back," Emily exclaimed, her face a mixture of confusion and surprise. It seemed both Emily and Derek knew this man.
"Nice to meet you
