It was like a tacit understanding not to say another word as Ashley approached.
The latter didn't seem to mind the odd silence as soon as she joined the gathering. Her focus was on Christian alone.
"You made it!" She said gladly and immediately everyone took that as a cue to leave. They made up excuses and went away except for Diane who remained by her husband's side.
It was more like Christian intertwined their fingers last minute as if to stop her from going anywhere even though she didn't have such plans.
"Yes, I did," Christian answered. "Nick is like a brother to me. I wouldn't miss out on any of his invitations unless my schedule is too tight to accommodate it."
"You are a very big asset to my family," Ashley stated with a proud smile. "Um... The party has started already and we will be sailing off in about fifteen minutes. Let's go to the bar."
