The next day at work, Ashley packed away the many unused items in her office. Once, she had imagined spending her entire life by Mason’s side, treating this place like a second home.
But that dream had come to an end.
“Why is the office so empty?”
Mason’s voice sounded behind her, catching her off guard.
Ashley’s body tensed for a moment, but she quickly composed herself. When she saw Georgina standing beside him, her expression returned to calm.
“The office was too cluttered. I’m just tidying up.”
Mason nodded, not sensing anything off.
“Looks much cleaner now.”
His eyes landed on the certificates and trophies inside one of the boxes and his brows drew together.
“You’re even packing up the awards you earned here? Why?”
Ashley gave a quiet, self-mocking smile. “I won’t be needing them anymore.”
Mason felt a flicker of discomfort. Ashley had been with him since graduation and she’d always taken pride in those accomplishments. Now, she was giving them up like they meant nothing.
Georgina stepped forward, taking Ashley’s hand with a bright smile.
“My little sister has always been a great help to Mason at work. I’ll need to learn a lot from you.”
Ashley froze, unsure what Georgina meant.
The next second, Mason spoke, his tone leaving no room for discussion.
“Georgina wants to come to the company to learn. Your office is spacious and has a nice view. It’s perfect for two people.”
“Okay. I’ll pack up my things and make room for my sister.”
Ashley didn’t hesitate or show any displeasure. After all, she would be leaving soon.
Sensing that her attitude was different from usual, Mason instinctively wanted to say more, but Georgina cut in.
“Thank you, little sister. Now we’ll get to see each other often.”
Ashley remained silent, expressionless, continuing to pack.
Georgina’s smile faltered slightly. Then, while Mason wasn’t looking, she deliberately knocked over the cup on the desk. Hot water spilled out, shards of glass scattering.
The cup was engraved with both Ashley’s and Mason’s names, a wedding anniversary gift she had begged him for.
Ashley knew it was intentional. But unlike before, she didn’t react. No anger. No complaint.
Mason rushed over to Georgina, his focus entirely on her. He checked her carefully, concern written all over his face.
Nestled in his arms, Georgina looked pitiful. “I didn’t mean to. My sister won’t blame me, right?”
Ashley gave a slight shake of her head.
A flicker of surprise crossed Georgina’s eyes, but she quickly masked it with a bright smile. “My sister is so understanding. Are you hurt?”
“She definitely won’t blame you. As long as you’re not hurt, that’s all that matters.”
Mason didn’t spare Ashley a single glance. He took Georgina’s hand and hurried out. “Let’s go. The concert you’ve been dying to see is about to start.”
After they left, Ashley crouched down. A bloody gash on her ankle stood out sharply, glass shards still lodged in the wound as blood continued to seep out.
She gritted her teeth against the pain, pushed herself up and leaned against the wall for support as she limped toward the hospital to get treated.
If that injury had been on Georgina, Mason probably would’ve been devastated.
Ashley had long since grown used to everyone placing Georgina on a pedestal while treating her like she was invisible.
