Relief filled her as Spencer nodded in understanding, nothing more. "She will. Give her time."

Ashley turned and began to open the door. They heard the sound of the game downstairs ending, Sean and Aiden leaving and collecting their winnings. Ashley felt a hand rest on her bare arm, making her turn. All she could see was screened through blonde hair. She felt arms sliding around her neck and pulling her closer to the warm body being offered. She placed a hand on Spencer’s lower back, rubbing in small circles. The blonde’s face was pressed against the skin of Ashley’s neck, right below her ear. Ashley couldn’t contain it any longer and reached up to slip her fingertips into the golden curtain that was tickling her shoulder.

Spencer shivered and pushed closer before pulling away slightly. She paused to press her lips against Ashley’s warm cheek and let her arms fall down Ashley’s, stopping at her elbows. Ashley still held on, staring at Spencer, as though searching for something. The blonde just looked back at her nakedly, unafraid of what the girl may see there.

"Spence, I-" Her words were muffled by the lips now pressing against hers. It was soft and sweet, and Ashley felt like she had just been forgiven for everything she had done wrong in her life. Her head tilted slightly to kiss Spencer back properly. She felt the girl grip her upper arms, as if they could only manage to be any closer they wouldn’t have to be two separate people. She took Spencer’s bottom lip between hers and slowly ran her teeth over it, making a soft sound when she felt a tongue brush against her mouth. They broke after a few moments, eyes heavy lidded but connected. Ashley’s knees almost buckled and her heart swelled when Spencer finally spoke. "I love you too, Ashley."

Spencer just smiled at the look on Ashley’s face as they let go of each other. Ashley beamed the brightest smile she had ever been graced with and turned once again to the partially opened door. She glanced back behind her, and Spencer’s face took her breath away. She really did love her.

"Goodnight, Spence." The door shut with a soft click, but she stood there, staring where she was sure Spencer was still rooted to the floor, until the beginnings of a shuffle of people coming up the stairs shook her from her thoughts.

She made her way down the steps, passing Mrs. Carlin on the way. The older woman stopped and turned. "Goodnight, Ashley."

Ashley was taken aback by the effort and sincerity in her voice, and could only answer with just as much honestly. "You too, Mrs. C."