“Well, well. Congratulations, brother. First official girlfriend at thirty-five.”
Damien gave him a look, then reached for his glass again and raised it. “And what about you? At forty? Or fifty?”
Ashcroft chuckled, unbothered. “I’m pacing myself. Can’t go ruining my reputation all at once.”
He took a slow sip of his drink, eyes gleaming with mischief. “Besides, if I ever do settle down, it’s going to be with someone who makes me forget every damn reason I swore not to.” Then he paused, his gaze settling on Damien with something quieter in his expression. “Like you—when you met Maya and knew you found the love of your life.”
Harper blinked. “Wow. That was… unexpectedly poetic.”
Ashcroft smirked. “Don’t get used to it.”
“Could’ve fooled me,” Harper muttered under her breath.
Without w
