Burn Me Once Burn With Me (Ruby Grayson) novel Chapter 517

Hayley met Ruby's bright, searching gaze and suddenly felt a chill creep down her spine.

She tugged nervously at her sleeves, glancing up just in time to catch Landon's eye across the room.

“If you need anything, you know where to find me. I’ll head out now,” Hayley said, her tone wavering for a split second before she quickly masked any hint of unease.

Standing, she slipped the first draft of *Flourish Symphony* into its folder, then gripped it tightly and gave it a little shake in Ruby’s direction.

Ruby nodded, signaling permission to take it.

After all, anything that belonged to her grandmother deserved to be put to good use. Ruby barely knew her way around music, but Hayley’s skill meant the manuscript would be far more valuable in her hands than left to gather dust on a shelf.

“Oh, right—Landon, it’s been ages since we caught up. Let’s talk for a bit,” Hayley added as she turned toward the door, a bright, almost mischievous smile on her face. She looped her arm through Landon’s and led him out before Ruby could protest.

Ruby’s eyes narrowed in confusion. She almost spoke up, but the determined look on Hayley’s face gave her pause. Whatever was going on, it was obviously between them. Besides, something in her gut told her it was better not to get involved.

As Hayley and Landon slipped out, Ruby noticed a small figure peeking around the corner of the room.

“What’s up?” she asked gently, turning her gaze toward him.

Asher hovered in the doorway, clearly uneasy, looking uncomfortable in this unfamiliar place. Ruby remembered how she’d brought him all the way from Stormhaven to Quinborough, and that he was just a child. She’d made sure he had a guest room here at Southgarde Estate.

“Ruby, are you heading home tomorrow?” Asher twisted the hem of his shirt, then summoned the courage to meet her eyes. “When can you help me find my mom and dad?”

The question caught Ruby off-guard. Asher’s eyes brimmed with hope and nervous anticipation.

“As soon as I finish what I need to do tomorrow, I’ll start working on it,” she promised softly, every word sincere.

Relief washed over Asher’s face. He smiled—a real, boyish smile. “Thank you, Ruby. I’ll go get some rest now.”

He waved goodbye, disappearing down the hall with quiet, careful steps. Ruby watched him go, her heart heavy with a mix of emotions.

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