ASHTINE’S POV
I walked into the office like I hadn’t almost lost my mind last night. Hair tied back, heels on, black coffee in hand and mask fully in place. I told myself today would be normal. No heart-pounding memories of Rich’s lips. No lingering thoughts of calling Zeke. No drama but I was wrong.
Because the moment I stepped into the lobby, Zeke Alaric was there.
Leaning against the receptionist’s desk like he owned the building, signature smirk in place. His eyes landed on me, and they softened, not like the playful guy at the bar, but something more.
“Morning, Maze,” he said, voice low and teasing. “Didn’t call last night. I was kind of hoping you would.”
I swallowed. Hard.
“I was busy,” I muttered, brushing past him.
He didn’t push, but he didn’t stop watching me either. And
