Ivy’s POV

Asher was always busy.

I understood why, he had taken on more than anyone should have to. Running the company, dealing with the fallout from the mafia’s collapse, trying to make sure what was left of that world never touched us again. He was doing it for us, for our future.

But understanding didn’t make it any easier.

The house felt emptier without him. Even when he was home, it was like he wasn’t really there. He’d come in late, exhausted, slipping into bed beside me with a quiet apology. Some nights, I barely stirred when he kissed my forehead. Other nights, I pretended to be asleep just...