Ash froze mid-step, his body stiffening as if the word had struck him. He turned slowly, disbelief flickering across his face. "What did you say?"
Martin blinked, surprised by Ash's reaction, and remained quiet, unsure how to respond.
Naomi, leaning in with keen interest, answered calmly, "His name is Aster."
Ash's curiosity immediately spiked. "Where did you meet him?"
Martin swallowed, shifting slightly. "During the health care program in the village...he came in for a checkup."
Ash's eyes narrowed, leaning a little closer. "Did he flirt with you?"
Martin shook his head quickly. "No, he didn't...it's just..."
Ash let out a quiet sigh of relief.
Naomi leaned forward, intrigued. "Do you know him?"
Ash's jaw tightened. "Yes. He's the worst person in the village, with a bad reputation."
Martin frowned. "How...?"
Ash's voice grew firmer. "Just don't think about him."
