Ashlyn's POV
Lazily, I dragged myself to the kitchen, still feeling sluggish even after my morning routine. Leaning against the doorframe, I watched Xavier at the counter, expertly whisking eggs.
“Good morning, beautiful,” he said, glancing up at me briefly before returning to his task.
I smiled faintly, my voice soft as I replied, “Good morning.”
“Get ready. We have to leave early today,” he added, his tone leaving little room for negotiation.
“Can I not go today?” I asked, sticking out my bottom lip in an exaggerated pout.
“No,” he answered firmly, without even looking up.
I let out an exaggerated sigh, turning away with heavy steps. But after a few steps toward my room, I stopped abruptly. A thought struck me.
Looking back in the kitchen, I made sure Xavier wasn’t th
