Ashton hissed softly, but I could tell it was more from sensitivity than pain. A shudder ran through him, and the flush of warmth that crept up his neck made unspeakable images flash through my mind.

I had to admit—I was far more wicked and demanding than I used to be.

After teasing him, I straightened up, casually took a sip of my coffee, and turned to leave his office as if nothing had happened. Ashton, however, seemed momentarily stunned, frozen in his chair and unable to ...