“Honestly, that’s my question for you,” Ashley said after a long pause. She set the phone face‑down on the table, a small gesture that somehow warmed Vance’s chest almost as much as her words.

“What do you mean? You didn’t do anything, Ashley,” Vance replied, frowning in confusion.

Ashley blinked at him. That name again. It felt like he was shifting gears—from professional to casual. She took a sip of water before continuing.

“I was thinking about the comments I ...