“Shoot Spence, I think we’ve hit a dead end.” Ashley spoke as they found themselves in a yard surrounded by a large cement retaining wall. She looked around and spotted a sliding glass door that lead into the homes living room, “…Unless…” She approached to door and found it unlocked, sliding it open ever so delicately.

“You sure no one’s in there?” Spencer questioned nervously, jogging up to join her. The adrenaline hummed in both of their ears, and was enough to embolden the brunette.

“Yeah. C’mon.” Ashley led the way inside, walking gingerly through the house. She checked the window before they exited through the front door, waiting until a cruiser had passed by.

“Wow, that was a close one.” Commented Spencer as they stepped through the front door, a rather triumphant smile on her face. At this point Ashley knew this was the most delinquent act the blonde had ever committed, and she found it downright adorable.

“No kidding. Now which way from here?” The brunette queried, allowing Spencer to take the lead as they continued on their little quest. About a block further they entered the area that had been burned, and all of the sudden the thrill of their adventure drained and took on a more somber note. No words were exchanged between them as they walked through the ghost land of homes where only chimney’s now stood.

“This is it.” Spencer uttered softly as they came to a stop in front of the lot that looked like all of the others. Ashley stared at the barren land, trying to imagine a home but only seeing a pile of charred rubble.

“I’m so sorry Spencer…” Ashley stated, because she had no other words to say. Spencer looked over at her, trying to force a smile but managing only a grimace.

“This used to be my room.” Spencer spoke, tenderly stepping through the ruins to a small square. The remainders of an iron bed stand could be seen, the metal twisted and melted. Ashley joined her, although she watched Spencer more than she scanned the ground. She wished she could make this all better, with every inch of her being.

“I’m sorry… But could I be alone for a few minutes? I just need to think…” Spencer inquired, keeping her eyes on the ground.