Then her expression brightened slightly.
"But it's almost lunchtime," she added warmly. "How about we eat together?"
As Lily spoke, her eyes naturally drifted toward Ashley's face again. The more she looked at her, the more she felt protective of the beautiful newcomer. She simply didn't want Ashley to feel isolated or unwelcome in such a hectic environment.
And Ashley, seeing the genuine kindness reflected in Lily's expression and demeanor, also found herself warming up to the girl a little.
But the moment Ashley remembered Apollo waiting for her, a trace of regret appeared on her face as she gently declined Lily's invitation.
"Lily, I can't eat with you today," Ashley explained apologetically. "I already promised my brother that I'd meet up with him and share the lunch I brought."
