Thomas rested his forearms on his thighs and asked,
"Why are you so quiet?"
Ashley took a moment to respond.
"I didn't want to interrupt."
Thomas let out a small nasal exhale.
"The truth is, I know you very well. Tell me what's worrying you."
Ashley raised her hand and brushed her hair back almost by reflex, combing it with her fingers while organizing her words.
"Was that the reason you were with women the other day?"
Thomas lowered his gaze for a moment.
"Yes."
Ashley fell silent. Thomas continued before she could draw the wrong conclusions.
"I wanted to tell you what was going on. In fact, I wanted you to be the first to know."
Ashley looked at him sideways.
"The first?"
"Yes." He clenched his hands slightly. "But not like this."
"Like what?"
"In a proper conversation, explaining my reasons for using it… and what I wanted to use it for."
Ashley held his gaze in silence.
"Then tell me."
Thomas exhaled deeply. He didn't look away from her as he answered.
