The Last Laugh novel Chapter 39

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Heather's POV:

Ace was someone really nice to hang out with. I found him quite funny and began to really appreciate him. And on top of that, he was hot. I couldn't lie to myself that he wasn't.

We were beginning to be good friends. Though he made me blush and nervous, I started getting fond of him.

"I was wondering why you left work early today." he said.

"Oh, I had something important to do."

"Can't it be told?" he teased with a smile. Oh, he was so handsome. He had a very attractive smile, yet familiar. Familiar like I'd known someone else with the same smile.

"Well to be honest, I went to buy myself a puppy."

"And you did?"

"No, I didn't succeed. I wanted a white one but they were none left."

"You like dogs?"

"Sort of."

"I like them too. But I prefer horses."

Me too!

"Me too! What a coincidence!" I exclaimed happily, "Do you ride??"

"Yup."

Wow. This was getting interesting.

"That makes two things in common." I giggled, "I used to have a horse."

"I wish I'd had one. I've never owned one." he said.

"Oh, sorry. But If you'd had one, what would you name it?" I asked.

He gave me an odd look.

"I'd give it the name I've given my dog."

"And what name is that?" I asked.

"Strike."

I felt a hard thud in my chest and the smile on my face faded.

Strike?

I was silent as thoughts of Sheridan returned.

"And I'd like it to be white." Ace added with a smile as he looked at his plate.

I felt a heavy lump in my throat. I felt like crying a little. It was crazy how everything or any person I met, always did something to remind me of Sheridan.

"Are you alright?" he asked me.

"Uh, yeah..." I muttered and forced a smile.

"Oh, okay. How was your horse?"

"She– she was a white mane. Beautiful."

"Wow. Can I guess her name?" he asked playfully, "I'm good at guessing."

I giggled.

"Oh, yeah? Hum. You'll never guess. You have the right to guess only one name." I laughed, folding my arms.

"Okay, then. Shall we bet?"

He would never find it!

"Yes. If you give the right name, I'll take your number."