Page 23 (1/2)

Reminiscent of their past friendship, Sylas and Nic continued joking with each other all the way through dessert

“God, I wish this night wouldn’t have to end It’s been so much fun”

Nic looked dohich caused her heart to skip a beat What is he thinking? Did I say so?

She looked at Sylas

“No, sweetheart Nic and I are having a wonderful time, too Aren’t we, buddy?”

He nodded and grinned,her feel better “We sure are”

Nic grabbed Ashley’s hand, enjoying the feel of her delicate fingers “This is the best night I’ve had in forever, sweetheart But unfortunately you have your bar exa with the O’Learys in the o, we can do this again”

“I’d like that” The softness of her tone drove him wild “How about you, Sylas? Shall you, Nic, and I have a sequel dinner date?”

“Absolutely, ill” Sylas seeenuine

Nic shtened with jealousy She’s mine, buddy Mine alone You’ll see But he wasn’t about to show his true feelings That would definitely be aherself, despite his renewed resent her laugh had made Nic so happy It orth all the effort Hell, even joking with Sylas had ht with the intent of showing Ashley that between him and Sylas, he was the one who could be cordial and friendly But the role he’d chosen for himself faded fast as he relaxed into the camaraderie he and Sylas once shared But their friendship could never be again unless his old friend illing to stop pursuing Ashley

Chapter Eight

Ashley said her good-byes to Nic and Sam at the front of the hotel “Thank you for a wonderful evening I can honestly say it went so ined”

“Forher “I’ll call you toain”

“That would be wonderful We have a terrific Chinese restaurant I believe you both would like”

“Then that’s settled,” Nic said, pulling her in for a squeeze “Chinese tomorrow The three of us You need to study, Ashley, so ill make it a quick meal, okay?”