The Redemption of Ace Merrill

No danger

Connie and Stella spent a good couple of hours trying on different clothes.

Every so often Stella went out to show the guys. Austin and Bruce would give nothing but a head shake or nod if they liked or disliked the outfit.

Jordan would try and say a lot more, yet every time he began speaking, Connie would quickly pull her back, cutting him off.

Austin and Bruce would share a small secret smile every time.

"It sucks you're leaving town." Connie said as she handed the bags to Jordan, who stepped back slightly.

Stella nodded slowly as she looked down.

"Just when I thought I could have a friend." Stella mumbled.

Connie came round from the counter as Jordan looked up.

"You'd be welcome to come to the wedding if she wants?" He offered.

Stella turned and gave him a smile as she looked back to Connie.

"What do you say?" She asked, secretly hoping Connie would say yes.

Connie grinned at her. "Oh you can bet I'm there."

Stella beamed as the pair hugged each other. Gently pulling away Connie took her hands in her own.

"You look after yourself Stell."

Stella smiled slightly. "You know Ace is the only one allowed to call me Stell?" She asked teasingly.

Connie shrugged it off and smiled at her. "What's he gonna do?"

Stella laughed and gently squeezed Connie's hands.

"It's been really nice knowing you Connie."

"I'd say the same but I'm sure I'll see you again."

Stella smiled as she looked down slightly before back up.

"I'm not sure when I'm coming back." She spoke quietly and softly.

Connie gripped her hands a little tighter. "Oooh I think it will be sooner than you think."

Stella laughed and shook her head. "I'm not so sure about that."

Connie nodded. "I am." She gave a cheeky little smile. "Seriously Stella, you must give me the name of the shirt designer, I really like it on you." She said as she let go of Stella's hands and gently tugged at the shirt collar.

Stella laughed and shook her head. "Goodbye Connie."

Slowly she stepped back to where Jordan, Austin and Bruce were waiting.

"I'm serious Stell!" Connie shouted as they reached the door of the shop.

Stella turned to her as Bruce stood holding the door open.

"It really suits you Stell." Connie spoke seriously.

Stella smiled weakly at her as she left, knowing both girls were just referring to the shirt, but it's previous owner also.

*****

"Mind we go in here?" Stella asked as she stopped and pointed to a shop.

Jordan glanced up at it. "A bookshop? Really?" He asked, grimacing slightly.

Stella was about to plead with him but Austin moved aside and pulled the door open for her. A smile came to her face as she skipped up to it. Gently reaching up she patted his cheek a couple of times.

"Thanks Austy!" She said cheerily as she walked inside.

Austin raised his eyebrows slightly at Jordan as Bruce walked in after her. Austin followed in after as Jordan huffed slightly, leaning up against the wall outside.