"Good morning, Mom, Dad," a kid ran towards them with a smile, clad in his school uniform. He hugged and kissed Diana, then turned to Ashiro, settling comfortably on his lap.
"Hi there, you little rascal," Ashiro kissed him on the forehead.
"Let's continue our chat later, Dane," he glanced at Diana, silently signaling her not to continue in front of their son.
"Dad, will you come home early today?" The kid asked, pouting.
"I want to, sweetie, but I can't," Ashiro said, holding Alex close.
Alex seemed disappointed. "Don't worry, at least Dad will drop you off at school today, right, wifey?" He looked at Diana, urging her to comfort their son.
"Yes, sweetie. You know Dad's busy every day. Come here, let me set you down, or Dad's clothes will get wrinkled."
Alex hesitated but eventually agreed.
"Sweetie, you and Mommy wait at the front door. I'll go fetch the car from the parking lot," Ashiro said, tousling the kid's hair before heading to the elevator.
Their house was intricate; Ashiro had bought two houses—one for their residence and another where he often drop off after work, connected underground. The underground passage led to the main house's parking lot, a smart idea from Ashiro and his architect and engineer friends.
Only Ashiro and his friends knew the house's true layout, a design born from his need for privacy against relentless paparazzi, also to hide his another identity. He trusted only a few close friends who understood and supported him, aware of the dangers of revealing too much.
The house where he often stops after work, beside the main house, is currently where his PA lives. Ashiro's PA also serves as his personal driver; Ashiro instructed him to stay there to avoid the hassle of commuting to his own house. The PA is one of Ashiro's most trusted confidants, occasionally even impersonating Ashiro. They share a close bond, and Ashiro is confident in his loyalty, as they've made a pact with consequences for betrayal.
Once inside the car, Ashiro called his personal assistant. "Change of plans. Plan B at 8 am sharp. No excuses." He didn't wait for a reply, ending the call promptly.
Ashiro was cautious with his words and actions, sensing Diana's recent doubts. He couldn't afford to be careless, wary even of hidden cameras in his car.
With the engine running, Ashiro signaled the guards to open the passage.
He gestured for Diana to sit beside him in the passenger seat and arranged for a maid to sit with Alex in the back.
"Sorry for the delay. I informed my PA not to pick me up today; he's meeting us at the first client appointment," Ashiro explained, avoiding further questions.
"Is everyone ready?" Ashiro checked, glancing at the backseat.
Alex and the maid nodded.
As he settled into the driver's seat, he cast a quick glance at Diana beside him. Her attention seemingly elsewhere. He gently reached over, his fingers grazing the cold metal of the seatbelt latch as he clicked it into place for her. "Honey," he murmured softly, his voice a gentle reminder amidst the quiet hum of the car engine, "stay focused." He withdrew his hand, the brief touch leaving a warm imprint on her skin. Diana startled slightly, her cheeks coloring with a faint blush that matched the soft pink of the setting sun outside.