Once I was outside I took a deep breath to fill my lungs with freedom and fear. I was scared because I am a long now. I know I have Ashley, but I can’t lean on her forever. I need to make my own way. Be strong for myself. Make her proud of me.

I looked around the yard and back at the house to remember where I come from. I was going to call Ash to pick me up, but I don’t have my cell. I left in the house. All well this is so worth the walk. Heading towards the road I was pulled to the side of the house. It was my sisters. They looked at me with pride for the first time. I’m sure it was because I did what they could not. I stood up to our mother. I didn’t back down and recoil into a corner. They where happy for me.

Jessica pulled me into a hug first telling me not to lose touch and to be careful. What really shocked me was when Leslie hugged me. She had not done more than give a nod or a look in years. I can’t believe I use to think that these two where out to get me for all those years. No more though. I will have a relationship with them. I really think this pulled us three closer together. I’m glad because I’m going to need them. We all hugged one more time before I went on my way with a promise to call them soon and I love you’s. Those are the best words in the world to me.

Walking down the road I realized how far of a walk I would have to get to Ash’s. Well at least I’ll plenty of time to think of a game plan for my life.

I know I need to call a lawyer or something and figure out was involved to become emaciated. That no matter what I would never have to deal with her or him again when he gets out. Shuddering at that thought I realized that hopefully I will be long gone by the time they let him out. I also need to find a job. I wonder who is hiring because I don’t want to end up working in some fast food restaurant for minimum wage.

Wow! Thinking and walking really make the time fly. I’m almost to Ashley’s. I wonder if she will take me up on that shower now. Grinning I made my way into Ash’s neighborhood.

Standing infront of her door I was scared of what she would say about the scratch marks that now occupied my face. I just hope she doesn’t want to go over and beat the crap out of Paula. Knocking on the door I waited for her to answer. Even though I knew I could walk in I didn’t feel right about it this time so I waited. Couple seconds went by before I heard the lock click and there stood my beauty with a noise crinkling smile on her face. It faded to soon though when she saw the marks.

"It’s ok don’t worry about them. I’m free now" She had a confused look. So I told her what had happen after we left the courtroom.

"I’m so sorry baby. Your gonna stay with me now. Right"

"If you’ll have me of course, but Ash I need to get a job and probably get an emaciation too."

"Great. I will help you anyway I can Spence" She smiled again pulling me into a bone crushing hug. "I’m just so glad to see you. I wasn’t sure how was going to sleep tonight without you there to steal my covers." she said laughing

"Ha hah Ash, but yes I didn’t think I would be able to sleep without you either. So how about that shower you promised me earler."

She got a wicked grin on her face before pulling me into the house and up the stair to the bathroom. I have never been so happy in all my life.