"Sir, it was just an admirer who pecked me on my way here," Ashley said, forcing a casual tone.
Master Alexandro gave a faint chuckle, reclining in his chair.
"Ashley, you don’t need to cover it up. You’re a grown man. It’s no crime to have someone special in your life." He winked playfully before adding, "Or do you think I’d be offended because you kept her a secret from me?"
Ashley shifted uncomfortably, his hand scratching the back of his head.
Alexandro waved dismissively, a smirk lingering on his lips.
"No need to explain. I’ve gone through the files you brought. You’re dismissed for now. And—" he added with a subtle laugh, "—apologies if I interrupted your romantic moment earlier."
Ashley muttered a polite goodbye and turned to leave. But he could feel Mitchell’s gaze burning
