“Someone…?” Vance looked totally lost. His eyes went blank, expression slipping for a few seconds.

Ashley nodded innocently, a faint smile tugging at her lips. She glanced between her phone and Vance, who was now pretending to fix clothes that were already neat.

“Ah, they’re already waiting,” Ashley added after reading the text. Vance’s gaze sharpened, and while Ashley grabbed her clutch, he shot up from his seat.

“Want me to drive you?” Vance offered, trying to sound ...