Page 40 of For Your Consideration

“Nothing,” I said as another text came through.

“Uh-huh…” Quinn said as she took a sip of her wine. “Tell Ash I said hi.” She shot me a wink.

Asher

What are you and Sophie doing tomorrow?

Me

Well, it’s a Sunday so we’ll be getting out. I have some errands to run.

Asher

I want to see you.

Me

You saw me on Friday.

Asher

Yeah, too long ago.

My blush deepened. I didn’t even know if this man knew how much he affected me. He’d basically said he missed me like it was nothing. I guess I had taken too long because the text bubble popped back up and I bit my thumb to try and control some of the excitement.

Asher

It’s not a date.

Me

No?

Asher

No. Friends hang out.

12

Sutton

“Hi,” I said as I pulled my door open. Asher was standing in my doorway in dark jeans and a white button-up with the sleeves rolled.

The man looked way too good for a Sunday morning. And he filled out those jeans disturbingly well.

“You look beautiful.” Asher’s voice was gravelly and deep as he looked me up and down.

I was also wearing a pair of jeans, a white T-shirt, and a new pair of pink runners. I loved being able to buy myself something new when I needed it. It was the perfect outfit for this beautiful spring day, no matter what we ended up doing.

“Thanks,” I said, tucking a piece of hair behind my ear. I’d actually spent the time curling it this morning rather than tossing it into a ponytail. Sophie let out a gurgle from behind us and we both turned. “She clearly wants attention too.” I stepped back so he could come into the apartment.

“Hey, sunshine.” Asher bent down in front of her stroller. “You’re beautiful too,” he muttered, his accent crisp. When she reached for him, he grabbed her hand to give it a kiss, and she giggled as she rubbed his face. “You being a good girl for your mama?”

I cocked my head and looked at him. He must have sensed it and turned to look at me over his shoulder. He shrugged.

It was like we were having a conversation without needing to talk.

“I read that Mama is easier for babies to say so it tends to be their first word. I figured I can use it around her, just to make sure.”