After a brief silence, Ashton's deep, smooth voice came through the line. "Have you been drinking?"

"Are you willing to be my fake boyfriend?" I dodged his question, refusing to explain myself.

Ignoring my response, he pressed again, "Where are you?"

"Forget it. I already know your answer," I replied curtly, ready to hang up.

But Ashton's voice stopped me. "Elaine, where are you? Are you at home or out somewhere?" His tone was firm, ...