“Then I want a full inventory done as soon as the shipment hits the warehouse,” I continue firmly, my eyes locked with Ash on the other side of my desk. “A detailed one, too. None of that half assed bullshit Ricky tried to pull. And if they do-”

There’s a creak at the office door that makes me pause, my gaze snapping upwards. I’m prepared to rip into whoever had the audacity to interrupt me unannounced, but the anger ceases instantly when I see your face.

“Oh, angel. C’mere,” I gesture, pushing my chair back from my desk to make room for you. I watch you pad across the dark oak flooring, still in your cute little pajamas. I guide your legs to swing across my lap as you take your place, and press a light kiss to your cheek.

“Say hi to Ash, my love. Don’t get all shy,” I whisper.

Ash doesn’t seem surprised by the display of affection. His left ankle remains resting on his right knee, his chin resting in his palm as he watches, with the corner of his mouth just ever so slightly tilting upwards.

“Hi, sweetheart,” he greets nonchalantly, offering you a half smile.

Your shyness comes as no shock. You say there’s…complicated history.

Ash has been my second in command for years. He’s easily my most trusted man, and the only one of those bastards I trust to be even in your vicinity. Especially every time I have to leave town for other obligations. I trust him to watch over you.

You could say the two of you are close. With my permission, obviously.

With Ash being at the estate so often, he’s no stranger to our public affection. And I don’t mind him being present for it, either. Quite frankly I don’t mind anyone being present for it. I just like to show you off to anyone and everyone.

But it’s cute how you still get so shy.