The nose crinkle is back however and with it my insides melt. I love her smile and I can’t help but return it.

　

What is happening to me? What is she doing to me? What are these feelings? Is it friendship? It must be because anything else would be a sin. However in the back of my mind I know that it is more than friendship.

　

I’ve never wished for Glen to be here more than I do now. He would help me understand what is going on. I know it.

　

Hours later and numerous staring contests between Ashley and I, they are gone. I have never been poked and prodded so much in my life.

　

“Come on girl’s time to clean up before Arthur gets home.” Ruth goes to start dinner while the rest of us clean up. I’m not hungry at all. My stomach is filled with butterflies from Ashley.

　

All the kids cleaned and sat at the dinner table just as Arthur walks in.

“How are my lovely women?” They all reply and he kisses each of them before sitting down. “So kids anything fun happen today?” The smaller ones scream in excitement about all there adventures. My father just smiles and laughs at their stories.

　

“Spencer great news.” Please tell me I’m not getting married. “I’ve signed the papers you have been officially un enrolled in school today.” WHAT! No, I love school it’s my escape. He can’t do that to me. “Isn’t that great?”

“Yes sir” NO!

　

Everything is being taken away from me. My schooling. My freedom. I’m pretty sure they would take my mind if they could. I have nothing now.

　

“Time to say grace” He announces.

We all bow our heads and fold our arms.

　

“Our heavenly father we ask you to bless us and our daily ….” He rambles on for what seems like hours about forgiving this and blessing that. My mind however drifts to chocolate eyes and a crinkling nose which puts a smile on my face. Maybe I should pray for answers to my questions and what is the right thing to do.

“In Jesus Christ’s name Amen.” My father ends his prayer and we can finally eat.

　

“Spencer I’m glad to see you so happy with fulfilling our lord’s will” Arthur exclaims.

I didn’t realize I was still smiling about Ashley.