No Boss of Mine

Unseen Until Now

Ashley and Finn stepped outside the soup kitchen, the hum of the city surrounding them. Ashley smiled up at him. "I bet you've never had a day like this before."

Finn chuckled softly. "I thought lawyers were tough," he said, his voice filled with unexpected warmth. "Thanks for today, Ashley."

She raised an eyebrow and asked, "What for?"

His expression grew serious as he stopped walking, turning to look deep into her eyes. "I've seen them—people—on the streets before. But I never really... saw them. Not until today."

Ashley halted, taking in his words. She studied his face, curious and intrigued by this new vulnerability. "What changed?" she asked quietly, wanting to understand.

Finn sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Being with them, hearing their stories, seeing their smiles despite everything they're going through—it hit me hard. It's not enough to just donate money. It's important to spend time with them, connect with them. That's what makes the difference."

Ashley felt a swell of emotion in her chest. "Well... you changed today," she said softly, her eyes locked onto his.

Finn's face grew even more determined. "Those kids deserve better."

She nodded, her admiration for him growing. "They do. And you showing up today, connecting with them—it made a difference. Welcome to my world," she added with a tender smile.

For a brief moment, their gazes met with an intensity that felt like they were truly seeing each other for the first time. Ashley couldn't believe how a man like Finn Jagger—so strong and composed—could also be so vulnerable, so compassionate.

They continued walking down the street, the quiet intimacy of their connection lingering in the air. After a pause, Finn broke the silence. "Come on, I'll drop you off at your house."

Ashley shook her head, glancing away. "Not today. I have to stop by somewhere first."

Finn frowned. "I can drop you off there."

She gave him a small smile. "Don't worry about me, Finn. Just go."

He hesitated for a moment but then relented. "If you say so."

Ashley watched as Finn's car pulled away from the curb and disappeared down the road. She let out a sigh as soon as he was out of sight. "Now," she muttered to herself, "time for the worst part of the day."

Ashley stood at the entrance of her childhood home, her heart pounding in her chest. It had been so long since she had returned—since she left for her charity work, putting miles between her and her past. She took a deep breath and knocked on the door.

"Ashley?—Ashley, is that really you?" her mother's voice called from inside.

Ashley stepped through the door, her heart aching with a mix of nostalgia and anxiety. "Yes, Ma," she replied, trying to steady her voice. "I hope I'm not interrupting anything."

"Nonsense, dear! Come in, come in!" her mother said with excitement. She turned her head and called, "Honey, look who's here!"

Ashley's father entered the room, his expression unreadable. He looked her up and down, crossing his arms. "So... you remember us?" he asked, a hint of sarcasm and anger in his tone.

Ashley swallowed hard. "I have something important to tell both of you," she said, her voice shaky.

Her father raised an eyebrow, clearly annoyed. "Very well. What is it?"

Ashley's heart raced as she prepared to speak the words that would change everything. She gathered her courage and said, "I'm... getting married."