I called Ashton. He didn't pick up—he was probably busy—so I left him a message on WhatsApp.

'"Can you come to the Mercer estate with me tonight?"'

Since he hadn't answered the phone, I didn't expect a quick reply to my message either. After sending it, I got back to work and focused on finishing my tasks.

It was nearing the end of my shift when Ashton finally called back.

"I was busy earlier and just saw your message," he ...