“Yeah. But I’m not him. I don’t care who my children love as long as they are happy and their significant other treats them right.”

Quietly Ashley said, “I think I’m in love with her.”

Paula gave her a huge smile and said, “I thought so. And what does my daughter think?”

“Honestly she freaked a little when I told her I have dated girls so she doesn’t know. I want at least her friendship so I haven’t told her.”

“I respect that Ashley. Give Spencer some time, I think she’ll realize that pleasing Arthur isn’t everything and is definitely not worth the heartache.”

“So you don’t mind me hanging out with Spencer? Really?”

“I think you will be good for each other. She’ll keep you out of trouble and you’ll watch out for her. You care about her so you’ll protect her and keep her from getting hurt.”

“I’ll definitely try Paula. I’m just surprised you’ll still let me around her. I’m sure you’ve heard enough bad things about me.”

“That I have.” Paula said laughing. “But I see you with Spencer and I forget what I’ve heard. I honestly just see a kid in love trying to get the girl and I believe you will in the end.”

“I hope you’re right Paula and I will treat her right. I would never hurt her. Not intentionally anyways.”

“I believe you Ashley. And I promise that if you two become a couple I will do everything in my power to help keep Arthur away so you have a fair shot.”

When Paula got home she knew she should talk to Spencer.

“Spence, you have a minute?”

“Yeah mom what’s up?”

“You know I try not to pry in your life too much but I do have to let you know some things.”

“Ok, what’s this about?”

“Honestly, it’s about Ashley.”

“Ok whatever you’ve heard don’t listen. You can’t keep me from hanging out with her just because of some rumors that you’ve heard.”

“And I don’t want to prevent you from seeing her Spence.”

“What? I thought you’d…”

Interrupting Paula said, “I know but it’s ok. I think you two are good for each other.”

“Even though she’s…”

Before Spence could say it Paula said, “I know she’s gay Spence.”