As Ashton spoke, his grip on my hand tightened briefly. His eyes narrowed slightly, and something flickered in their depths—a fleeting emotion I couldn't quite name.

But then, as quickly as it came, the pressure on my hand eased, and he let go.

I stepped back instinctively, rubbing the spot where his grip had been firm. "I've made all the changes you marked. Do you want to review them now?"

Ashton remained seated, lounging in the chair. He ...