Paula cleared her throat and the girls broke apart. “Uh hey Mom,” Spencer said with a light chuckle. Ashley still had her arm on Spencer’s waist.

“Hello, Mrs. Carlin,” said Ashley casually. I uh could see where Spencer gets her good looks from. Is that the smartest thing you could up with? Smooth, Davies. Real smooth.

“Nice try, but flattering me won’t work,” Paula replied. I think you should go home now, Ashley.

“Mom,” stated Spencer with a sigh. She’s been here with me the whole day. She gave me a ride here so I wouldn’t have to call a cab and waste any money.

“It’s okay,” Ashley responded reassuringly. I’ll just call later to check up on my favorite girl. It’s not worries. Ashley kissed Spencer on her cheek.

“Don’t bother,” snarled Paula. Paula dragged Spencer away by her wrist.

“What’s wrong with you?” Spencer asked angrily.

“Madison told me a lot of bad things about that girl,” answered Paula simply.

“Sure, Ashley has a past, but she’s trying to be a better person,” Spencer stated. Doesn’t that count for something?

“I suppose it does,” responded Paula.

“Ashley really cares about me and I really care about her,” Spencer explained.

A couple of days later, Ashley nervously rang the doorbell to Spencer’s house. Paula opened the door. “Hello, Mrs. Carlin,” Ashley said.

“Hello, Ashley,” said Paula trying to sound civil. If you are looking for Spencer, you just missed her. She went to the store with her father to get some things.

“That’s good to know, but I’m actually here to see you,” Ashley stated simply. I have something that I need to ask you. It’s really important.

“Okay,” said Paula surprised. What do you have to ask me?

“I was uh wondering if I could ask your daughter to have dinner with me on Saturday night,” Ashley began. It’ll only be for dinner and a walk along the beach. I don’t have any ulterior motives. I’ll have her home half an hour before curfew. You have nothing to worry about. Spencer is in good hands.

“No, that isn’t possible, Ashley,” responded Paula simply.

“Please, I hope that you reconsider your decision,” Ashley stated.

“I’ve made my decision,” sighed Paula. I don’t want you to see Spencer. You’re a bad influence on her.