CHAPTER EIGHT

It was the week of the reunion and Natalie and Ashley’s flight was today. They were told by Paula that they’re staying at the Carlin’s house. Paula said that she hadn’t seen Spencer in a few days so she figured the girls would be okay there. Ashley was uneasy staying there, but Natalie said that everything would be fine and not to worry. The girls were leaving within the hour, but Ashley was checking that she had everything she would need for the week.

“Ash, we need to leave! Come on! I’m sure we have everything and if not we can go buy it!” “Okay Natalie, we can leave now. I’m driving.” Natalie started to pout but Ashley held up her hand telling Natalie that this was not debatable. Ashley made it to SFO within 35 minutes, the traffic not being too horrible today. They got through the baggage check-in and made their way towards their gate. Sitting down waiting for the plane, Ashley started to get nervous. She was doing her Sudoku puzzle and shaking her knee when Natalie grabbed the book away, placed a firm hand on Ashley’s knee, and kissed her. That kiss released almost all the nervousness from within Ashley. When Natalie pulled away Ashley’s eyes were still closed and Natalie laughed a bit. Ashley slowly opened her eyes and looked at Natalie’s smiling face and realized that maybe this girl really could replace Spencer to the fullest extent.

Soon enough their flight was ready to leave and they were in LA. Getting off the escalator, Ashley could see Paula jumping up and down waving to her and Natalie. The two girls started laughing as Paula knocked over some old woman. “Way to go Paula! Just knock the woman onto her ass why don’t you?” “Oh shut up, you! Come here and give me a hug.” Ashley walked right into Paula’s arms as the tears spilled over both of their eyes. “It’s been too long, Ash… too long.” Ashley just nodded, knowing her voice would betray her at this time. “Natalie, it’s great to see you too… God, this is just so emotional!” The now three girls walked to receive Natalie and Ashley’s bags, and then exited the airport to get Ashley’s rental Porsche. “I don’t know why you even bothered getting a car Ashley. I told you I’d be happy to lend you mine.” “I know Paula, it’s just, I never really use the money my dad left when he died, so I put it to use on something I’ll really use.”

Natalie had decided to go with Paula, leaving Ashley by herself. Turning on the radio, her cell phone rang. When she picked up the phone, she had to do a double take at the number. It can’t be… Spencer? “Um, hello?” “… hey Ashley. It’s Spencer.” Oh shit… what do I say? Fuck fuck fuck! “Um… yeah… hi.” “Look Ash, I wanted to see you. Can you meet me at our spot? Please? Just for a few minutes, I swear.” Should I go? *sigh* “Fine Spencer. I’ll meet you there now.” With that, Ashley hung up and moved towards the right freeway. I think I’m making the biggest mistake of my life right now.

In the other car, Paula watched as Ashley got off her cell phone and went towards the Santa Monica freeway. Oh no. This can’t be good. Paula looked over at Natalie and saw that the girl had also seen her girlfriend switch freeways. “Um… where is she going?” Paula just shook her head. “Guess.” Natalie looked out the window again and then towards her feet. “Spencer?” Paula felt bad for the small girl next to her. “Yeah sweetie… Spencer.”