He grins at that. "You are very beautiful and I am likely just as horny. Just think I'm older and have learned to keep that under control when I need to."

Ash nods and that smile doesn't fade. Not when she mentions Max. There's only one other person he wants in the same way he wants her. "I...yeah. I've met Max." He shakes his head. "I'm not one of those guys who thinks the friend zone is a thing. Or who thinks just because I want you that you are obligated to want me back. You aren't leading me on."

He felt a lot more then want but telling her all of that felt like pressuring her. Ash doesn't want to feel like he's trying to convince her to feel how he feels. If she does it'll happen, if not...he can't make her fall for him.