Chapter 270

‘Bullshit.’ Ashton’s fingers dug into my shoulders. ‘That’s a bullshit excuse.’ ‘I’m signing the papers tomorrow,’ I said. I didn’t know what hurt more—his grip, sharp enough to bruise, or the look on his face. I’d never been a big fan of alcohol, but tonight, drinking had been the smart choice. At least it dulled the pain. ‘No.’ He refused to let go when I tried to shake him off. ‘You don’t get to end this unilaterally. I get a say. You can’t just toss the ring at me and walk away.’ I gave up struggling and sank into the sofa, suddenly exhausted. ‘Working in Paris is my dream. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I can’t—’ ‘Bullshit!’ The word tore out of him, raw and jagged. His usual coolness was gone. He loomed over me, hands pinning me in place, breath hot against my cheeks. ‘You could’ve told me. I’d never have stopped you buying the company. So what if it’s in Paris? That doesn’t mean we’re over. It’s not like you’re moving to fucking Mars. Tell me the real reason.’ ‘That I