Ash catches the desperation in my eyes and sits back down. He takes Christie's hand and says, “Although, maybe you want another scoop?”
Christie shakes her head. “Ah, nope. Brain-freeze.”
Ash laughs. “It won’t stop you from looking for a midnight snack tonight.”
She blushes, smiling at him. “You know me too well.”
“If you two need to get back home,” I interrupt, leaning forward, “I’m happy to go back with you.”
“We won’t ruin your night,” Christie replies.
Ash grins at me. “Yeah. Stay out with LJ as long as you want.”
I give him a look that screams for an escape.
Hope nudges her boyfriend. “Get us some chairs so we can join their table.”
I quickly stand before Luke takes a step. “No, really, we should be getting back.”
“Oh, come on,” Hope says. “Your mother can’t keep you on such a tight leash. Shouldn’t your parents be loaded with cocktails by now?”
LJ latches onto my hand, interlacing our fingers. “Sit back down, sweetheart. Your parents know you’re with me. They won’t care what time I get home because they trust me.”
My skin crawls. I recall staying out all night under the stars with Dax. It was so magical. Right now I feel slimy and cheap.
I rub my thumb on the heel of LJ’s palm to placate him. His grip loosens, and I take the opportunity to free my hand. His face drops with surprise, and I back away from the table.
“Ash,” my voice squeaks. “I really have to get home.”
Christie stands as fast as Ash. She watches me with concern, not understanding my sudden mood change.
Ash steps around the table, beckoning me over. “Bye, Hope and Luke,” he says with a wave. “You guys can give LJ a ride home?”
Luke nods. “Yeah, man.”
LJ’s face contorts with confusion. “Okay, goodbye, I guess.”
I move away without giving anyone a chance to reel me back in. The three of us make it to the sidewalk, and our black limousine awaits.
“Christie, will you give us a minute?” Ash asks.
She nods and leaves for the limousine.
With his girlfriend out of sight, Ash shoves me away. “Don’t use me like that again.”
I struggle to find my footing, shocked by his aggressive outburst.
“It’s bad enough I’m ping-ponging between our parents,” he snaps. “I don’t need your games either.”
I clasp my hands over my chest. “I wasn’t using you.”
Ash lifts a hand, turning away from me. “Save it.”
I stamp my foot. “Ash.”
He doesn’t look back and disappears into the limousine.
My stomach twists in on itself. This will be a fun ride back to Ashworth Estate.
