Asher's conversation with Jared was brief, but he instantly caught onto the younger man's hesitation to talk. A conversation best saved for later Ash realized. He should have known better than to bring it up in such an open place anyway.
When Delilah made her entrance, Ash gave her a brief nod by way of 'good morning' and continued shoveling the large breakfast into his mouth. When her phone went off and the woman quickly announced she'd be leaving, Asher knew Chloe would be upset. He'd wait for it to happen and then comfort her the best he could. He knew Chloe would be even more upset since she'd gone through all the trouble of matching their dresses and planning the brunch down to the last detail. Asher wasn't the least bit surprised when she walked out back. He knew she'd need the moment to gather herself and preferred those few moments alone. So, instead of following her, he stayed inside with Harmony.
When the little girl asked why her mommy was sad, Asher was literally at a loss for words. "She's not sad, so much as overwhelmed. She just has a lot to do and think about, Har-Bug. She'll be just fine." he told her. Harmony continued talking to him about her morning. "Mama wouldn't let me go swim today, she put a blanket thing on the pool and wouldn't let me wear my pretty princess dress. I think it's Mr. Chris's fault, whenever he calls mama cries. If I ever see him I'm gonna do this and that." Asher felt the old familiar sensation of anger boiling in his chest. Chris was not someone he liked, and for obvious reasons. The fact that he'd made Chloe cry pissed him off. Not wanting to upset Harmony, he laughed as she imitated what she'd do if she ever came across Chris. "I'm sure you would. And I bet Mommy's saving your pretty, pink dress for a special occasion." he told her, a smile still on his lips.
When she called his 'Dad', it melted his heart. He knew that Harmony wasn't his, but he treated just as well. He loved that little girl. Before he could even answer her request for a cookie, Chloe slipped back in and interfered, chastising Harmony for calling his by the name. Asher turned away from both of the girls, not wanting Harmony to see the anger he couldn't hide. He knew just as well as she that he wasn't the father, but Harmony needed a father-figure and if he provided that, then why did she have to fight it so much. Another conversation to be saved for later, he decided before stalking off to his room, leaving his plate where it sat on the table. "Call me when brunch is ready." he tossed over his shoulder as he retreated.