Ashley Davies stared blankly out the window. The sky was clear of all clouds, and the sun stood out like a sore thumb. It was hot, hotter than it had been in California, Ashley thought with a frown. She didn’t like hot weather, she didn’t hate it either, but this was like beyond any other heat she’s ever dealt with. She closed her eyes, the scenery was starting to upset her, I hate this! Her mind screamed. At least car rides in Cali had better things to offer than listening to Country music, while watching cows just stand there doing nothing.  Ashley sighed heavily.

Karen Rain looked over at the Orphan sitting in the passenger seat, and shook her head sadly. She had been with the cops the night of Ashley’s parents’ death, and could see the young girl was devastated, after hearing the tragic news. What worried Karen the most was the fact that Ashley never once cried that night, or at the funeral. She just stood in front of her parent’s grave emotionless. “You okay?” She asked quietly.

Ashley shifted in her seat, and looked over at her caseworker. She had been the only person that Ashley felt she could really trust since her parents’ death, 2 weeks prior. “It’s just I’ve never met these people, Kar, and I’ve never heard of this shi- I mean crappy town ‘Kenton’, Ohio.” She paused. “I’m just nervous I guess.” Ashley turned her attention back to the window, and glared at each passing cow.

Karen was shocked at Ashley’s revelation. That was the most she’s gotten out of the teen when it came to how she was feeling about anything. Karen got over her shock, and quickly glanced over at the teen. “Ashley ‘these people’ are your grandparents. I’m sure they’ll love and care for you like any other couple would love and care for their grandchild.”  She stated confidently.

“I don’t know.” Ashley replied warily. “If they cared so much, why weren’t they at the funeral?” Ashley turned her attention back to her caseworker, and waited for an answer.

Karen thought a moment. Why weren’t they at the funeral? She mentally asked herself. Raife was their son, what kind of people don’t attend their son’s funeral? Karen opened and closed her mouth, not sure how to answer that question, and sighed. “I’m sorry Ashley. I don’t know why they didn’t show up.” She answered honestly.