*Ashley*
I walk Ben to the door, the weight of our conversation still hanging in the air. He leans against the doorway, hands in his pockets, his expression serious. “I’m going to be in New York for a bit,” he says, his voice firm. “Just in case you change your mind… or need me. Call, okay?”
I nod, feeling a mix of frustration and gratitude. “Thanks for looking out for me, Ben. I really appreciate it.”
He gives me a small smile, but it doesn’t reach his eyes. “Just… be careful, okay? You know where to find me.”
As he turns to leave, I close the door behind him and lean my forehead against it for a moment. I take a deep breath, needing to shake off the tension. That’s when I turn and find Lucas watching me from the kitchen, his eyes intense.
“What did he want?” Lucas asks, his voice
