Chapter 39
ASHTON
I have less than a second to think through the mush in my head caused by Demi’s entrancing presence and get us both out of this hot mess. Just as my door begins to crack open, I flick off the light switch which was luckily already on a low setting and clasp a hand over Demi’s mouth to muffle any sound. Then I heft her into my bathroom and click the door shut.
"Ash? Are you asleep already?"
When Ashley pokes his head in and turns on the light, he sees me patting my hair dry with a small towel. "Oh, there you are."
I plop on the arm of my couch. "What is this about?" I ask grudgingly. The last time we spoke, it was a heated conversation. I am still pissed at him for acting so immature. Hence, my attitude.
"Hey, I’m really sorry about last time. It was stupid of me to misjudge you like that." Ashley makes himself comfortable on my bed and I grit my teeth. If he’s feeling cozy, this conversation could span hours. I can’t have that, not with Demi freaking in my bathroom.
"I know Demi and I are only married on paper. However, I believe that as her lawful husband, there should be obvious differences between me and you guys being her brothers-in-law. I should have certain rights exclusive to my position. Things like you knowing her passcode when I don’t or you being able to make her feel a certain way just by being in the same room with her makes me go crazy sometimes..."
"I get it, Ash. Whether your marriage is on paper or not, you’re a real couple to Danvarr. I know I can be a hothead and insist on having my way irrespective of how it makes others’ feel. I’m sorry. I’ll give you and your wife the space you need to bond. We’re good." I lurch to my feet, spurring Ashley to do the same.
"Thank you for your understanding, man. For a second, I feared you might actually be in love with her." Ashley chuckles as we share a look meaningful look with each other. If he’s here to force words out of my mouth, it’s not working. I feign a smile at him in return.
"I’ll be on my way now." But then he stops by the door and turns to me with a suspicious air. "By the way, Mila texted Asher to ask if you were home as she hasn’t been able to reach you." Though he doesn’t say the remaining part ringing in his head which is, ’I found that strange because you told us the two of you spent the entire evening together,’ I get it from the wink he goes on to give me.
"Women, am I right? They can be quite clingy."