"Ms. Hart, I've never dated anyone. My reputation's spotless, unlike yours - with an ex-fiancé, that guy who pets your head, and this 'brother' of yours," Ashton said deliberately, his eyes fixed on me.

Before I could snap back, he lowered his gaze. "So really, I should be worried. If people hear we spent the night together, they'll think I'm not pure anymore."

"Are you saying I corrupted your virtue?" I sputtered, fuming.

"Not at all. You were ...