Ray kept his head bowed, hand still rubbing his neck as if it was some kind of comforter. A moment or two passed, then he lifted just his eyes and said, “D’you wanna hit me?”

It was an offer more than a question, even though he knew Asher had said he wasn’t angry anymore.

“I get that it wouldn’t make us even and it’s not as satisfying if the other person is willing, but take a swing if it’ll make you feel better.” He wasn’t particularly eager for Asher to take him up on his offer but sometimes it was glaringly obvious that the other man wanted to knock some sense into him.