Ashton sighed, his expression softening as he said, "Because you're the only person who can make me abandon all my principles."

His words were effortless yet profound, as though he were simply commenting on the weather. His sweet-talking was impressive, and even without using the word "love," he was telling me exactly how he felt.

My throat tightened, and my eyes stung with unshed tears. Trying to hide the emotions bubbling inside me, I chewed on my flatbread and mumbled, "Come ...