Firestorm 2007

Part Two of Two

“Spencer… I am so sorry…” Ashley finally managed, her brows knit together. After a moments hesitation she wrapped her arms around the girl, who remained stiff and stared over Ashley’s shoulder at the television screen. That was her house up there, her home, and it was burning right in front of her eyes.

“Don’t worry about the money sweetheart, the hay is on us.” The woman behind the counter spoke, more to Ashley than Spencer. Her eyes looked honestly sympathetic, and the brunette gave a small and grateful nod.

Finally the news channel switched to a different image and Spencer buried her face in Ashley’s shoulder, the tears coming and overwhelming her other senses, “My house is gone.” She spoke, voice muffled as she choked on her words.

“It’ll be alright Spencer, you’re safe and your family is safe, that’s what matters.” Ashley whispered to her, tightening her hold as she tried to shelter the blonde from the torments of the world around them. She didn’t know how to make this better.

Spencer didn’t speak, she instead just tried to control her sobs and reign in this overwhelming flood of emotions. The comfort of being so close to Ashley was immense, just smelling the girl’s vanilla shampoo sent small chills down her spine. Eventually she pulled away, eyes red and face swollen as she looked at the ground, “We should tell my family.” She finally mumbled, avoiding eye contact because she hated being seen like this.

“Whatever you want to do.” Ashley spoke, nodding as she tipped Spencer’s chin upwards, meeting those glistening blue eyes with her own, “It’ll be okay, over time everything will be just fine. I promise.”

“Thank you Ash.” The blonde replied, still frowning as she looked away. The image of her house in flames was still roasting in her minds eye, and it was refusing to leave.

“Any day.” She replied with a smile before they exited the store. Spencer walked closely with Ashley, seeming to use her form as a shield against the staring eyes of the outside world. Ashley couldn’t help but appreciate the proximity, her body tingling guiltily wherever Spencer would occasionally brush up against her.

They reached Spencer’s trailer and were immediately approached by a very concerned Arthur. The blonde instantly dove into his arms, and while he comforted her he looked to Ashley for answers, “What happened?”