"I am so stressed…I want to be captain of the squad so badly, Spencer…I don’t know if I’m good enough…"

Spencer held her and ran her hand over her hair.

"Shhh…shhh..it’s ok….I know you’re the best damn cheerleader I’ve ever seen, even if by some miracle you don’t make the squad."

Ashley smiled into Spencer’s collar and smacked her arm lightly.

"Pom,” Ashely corrected.

Spencer smiled into Ashley’s hair.

"Yeah, pom,” laughed the blonde.

They sat there on the couch, Ashley nestled on Spencer’s lap. Ashley and Spencer each relished the calm security they found in each other’s arms, not daring to tell each other, or even themselves how much it truly meant to them.

After her initial bout of crying, Ashley rested her head on Spencer’s shoulder and played with her shirt collar and the first button on her shirt. Her other arm rested behind Spencer’s neck, propping it up. Her right hand curled into the curve of Spencer’s neck, allowing Ashley to play with Spencer’s ear as well.

Having Ashley play with her as she was, Spencer felt decidedly aroused and no little amount of discomfort. Ashley was a good friend, Spencer did not want her to think that she was anything like the men she knew. Spencer was better than that, she could control herself. At least that’s what she kept repeating in her brain so that her hand wouldn’t travel the few inches up Ashley’s leg…into the very short shorts she was sporting…into places Spencer should really NOT be thinking of.

Spencer cleared her throat uncomfortably.

"Umm…Ashley? Are you okay now?" Ashley snuggled up closer to Spencer’s neck. Spencer swallowed and tried not to shake too much.

"Yes, thank you, babe. I feel a lot better now."

Spencer took a deep fortifying breath and pushed Ashley firmly away so she could look into her eyes and regain some measure of control when she saw the lack of desire in them. Unfortunately, Spencer saw exactly what she was hoping not to see…Ashley relaxed, comfortable, and looking at her with those beautiful, trusting brown eyes. Spencer’s jaw clenched and she tried to not lose what little control she retained.

"Why don’t you show me the routine again?" Spencer’s voice was deeper than usual, husky. It sent shivers down Ashley’s spine and caused an immediate reaction down below.