Ashton let out a low snort and set me back on my feet. His hand left my waist slowly, as if he had to remind himself to release his hold. He glanced at John, then at the roses in his hands, his expression turning cold and faintly mocking. "You like this kind of courting?"
"No." I paused, then added honestly, "But many women do."
He pressed his lips together and folded his arms across his chest, his stance firm, almost blocking the space between us without saying a word. He showed no sign of going inside, standing there as if he intended to stay.
I looked at him and asked, "Aren't you leaving?"
"Why should I?" he replied without hesitation.
That simple answer left me speechless.
In the end, I stopped arguing and let him stand there as he pleased.
I walked toward John, who had been watching quietly from where he stood. He didn't move as I approached, only stepped forward slightly and held out the bouquet toward me. "I came to wish you an early happy birthday."
