Jill cleared her throat. “Ash, I’d like to apologize to you. I’ve been such an asshole, and I took it out on everyone else, but you most of all. I’m sorry for threatening your job.”

“More than once,” Ash said. They turned in their chair and folded their hands on the desk.

“Right. More than once. That was unprofessional of me and I really didn’t mean it. You’re the best assistant I’ve ever had. And honestly, I’d be so overwhelmed without your help. If you ever feel the need to find someplace better or just get away from me, I’ll understand and I will write you a glowing recommendation. Just say the word.”

Ash stared at her long enough that Jill had to resist the urge to squirm or run into her office. Finally, they stood and waved her off. “Don’t go falling on your sword. I’ve handled your outbursts for so long already. Why not a few more?”

Jill let out a slight chuckle. “I’d say these were a little worse than normal. I am sorry, Ash.”

“I know. You’ve been having a rough few weeks and that sucks, but you basically did what Harrison did to you to everyone else. It wasn’t cool.”

“I promise never to do it again.”

“Good enough.” Ash put their hands in their front pockets and gave Jill a slight grin. “You’re gonna fight for her, aren’t you?”

“Why do you think that?”

“Well, you’re not one to apologize easily. You must have had a come to Jesus moment in the last couple of days.”

Jill let out her first genuine laugh in weeks. “That’s true. And I am going to try, as long as she’ll listen to me first. That’s the big question right now. But I need to get some work done. Could you bring me a cup of coffee when you get a chance, please?”

“Wow. A please without prompting. I should mark this down as a historical moment.”

“Oh, shut up.” She hung her jacket and bag in her closet before sitting at her desk and turning on her computer. She had to deal with one conference call and a few minor tasks before she could leave to meet Reagan at Gale’s.

She was grateful she didn’t need to lead the conference call because she definitely couldn’t focus on it. As her lead designer droned on, her thoughts drifted to what she would say to Reagan. She had tried to plan out a small speech last night, but she didn’t want it to sound rehearsed or robotic. She needed to tell Reagan what was in her heart and the only way to do that was to say whatever came to her in the moment.