Ashley blushed at Kai's words, and it irked Lorenzo more than he cared to admit. He didn't want to come off as a jerk, but the urge to punch Kai square in the teeth was strong.
"I'm Ashley," she replied with a smile, appreciating that they were being friendly to her.
Lorenzo scowled. Why was she playing along? That smile—she never smiled at him like that. Does she happen to love everyone except him?
"You're welcome to the hood, mama," Kai winked. "The big guy hasn't said much about you, but I bet it's cause' he's scared we'll steal you right from under his nose."
Ashley chuckled.
He brought her hand to his lips, aiming to kiss it—but Lorenzo smacked it away and took her hand into his own.
Ashley turned to him, startled. Lorenzo couldn't tell if she was annoyed or just surprised, but to avoid making things more awkward, he changed the subject.
"Carl! She's waiting," he barked, voice sharp. Then, turning back to Ashley, he softened. "Or… do you want to have breakfast first?"
