“What did he mean by ‘determined hands’ Ash?”

“What? Oh, well because I’m not family or your spouse, they refused to let me stay with you. But I refused to leave, and my will is stronger than theirs I guess,” she replied chuckling.

“So you’ve been with me this whole time?”

“Of course, you’re my best friend and new girlfriend.” Ashley said the last part quietly as her cheeks began to flush.

Spencer smiled at the woman that was sitting next to her, “Ashley Davies, are you asking me to be your girlfriend? We’ve only had one date you know.”

“Well, you sacrificed that face of yours, it’s the least I can do.” The smile on the blonde’s face faltered, “how bad is it?”

“Mostly just bruising, but all that is going to go away,” she hesitantly replied.

“Give me a mirror, I want to see.” Ashley got up and grabbed her purse, taking out her compact she gave it to Spencer.

Spencer took a deep breath as she slowly opened the mirror. A sharp intake of breath was heard as she moved the compact around to get a better angle. It was awful she thought, her nose was all bandaged up, her lips were black and purple with a big cut on the lower one, the left side of her mouth was swollen and she had matching black eyes.

Ashley watched as Spencer closed her eyes and the mirror. “You’re beautiful Spence,” she whispered as she gently wiped away the tears, “and I’m going to protect you from now on.” Spencer’s eyes fluttered open, but did not look at Ashley. “I want to take care of you, will you move in with me? … I mean, at least until you are 100% again,” she added nervously. Spencer contemplated for a moment, “you would do that for me?”

“In a heartbeat. I’m not your best friend for nothing.” Both women fell into a comfortable silence, staring into each others’ eyes.

“At least think about it Spence, Troy ducked out before the police got to your house, we haven’t heard from him since.” Spencer’s blue eyes widened in fear at hearing her words.

“It’s ok babe, I told you, I’ll be your protector. You are safe with me.” Spencer relaxed; she knew Ashley would look out for her. “Ok Spence, after the first night after we made sure you were stable, the doctor sent your family home, I’m gonna give them a call and tell them you’re awake and ok,” the brunette stated as she stood up. She lightly kissed her on the forehead, “I’ll be right back.” Spencer smiled as she watched her girlfriend walk out of the room.