“No. Nobody.” She replied after hesitating for one short moment. She didn’t want to get Ashley in trouble or anything. After all, she’d seen just how intimidating this seemingly cheerful man could be for herself. The memory turned her stomach.

Max leaned in closer to her, his dark eyes taking her in from head to toe before he spoke once more, “You know, if you ever need somebody to protect you, I’ve helped a lot of girls.”

She took a step back, trying to keep her voice even, “No, no, that’s okay. I’m okay.”

“That’s too bad.” He chuckled to himself, secretly pleased with how nervous he made the pretty blonde.

“It was nice meeting you Max, but I’ve… Got an appointment.” She spoke hurriedly, continuing to back up in small steps.

“You too, Spencer.” He smiled once more, waving politely before turning and walking the other way down the street. Spencer exhaled heavily once he was out of sight, her hands shaking furiously. Maybe she was biting off a little more than she could chew with this whole thing. Too shaken to continue on with her original plans, she re-boarded a bus heading the opposite direction. When she finally got home she went to her room, shutting and locking the door behind her. It wasn’t until she hit her bed that the tears came, soaking the pillow that she had buried her face in.

Two Weeks Later

Things had changed a lot in two weeks. Despite it being summer, Spencer had little desire to hang out with friends or frequent the beach. She’d become mildly obsessed with the elusive brunette.

“Did you know her father was Raife Davies?” She announced at dinner, at this point not having to clarify who she was speaking about.

“Maybe he will pay for the jewelry she stole.” Paula replied in a bitter tone, none too pleased with her daughter’s new hobby.

“I thought the guy died in a car accident like a year ago.” Glen queried, leaning forward slightly in his chair.

Spencer nodded solemnly, “He did. Maybe that’s why she ran away.”

Quiet fell over the table as everyone was absorbed into their own train of though. Spencer was worrying about Ashley. Paula was trying to figure out exactly why Spencer was worrying about Ashley. Glen was texting his friend in Ohio that he’d met Raife Davies’ daughter. And Arthur, well he was about to make his thoughts known.

“I got a call today.” He spoke finally, his tone more serious than normal.

“And?” Paula prompted when he did not continue.

“She’s been arrested.” He spoke after a moment’s pause, his eyes watching Spencer for a reaction.

“Ashley is in prison!?” Spencer exclaimed, standing up from her seat at the table.

“Thank god!” Her mother spoke at the same time, causing the two blondes to gawk incredulously across the table at each other.

“Dad, we’ve got to do something.” The girl pleaded at once, her eyes wide and startled.

“Yeah.” Glen added, smirking slightly, “We have to testify. I know I could pick her out of a line up.”

His younger sibling shot him a filthy look, her small hands balled into fists, “This isn’t a joke Glen. This is someone’s life.”

“Exactly whose side are you on Spencer? That girl is a thief.” Her mother was straining to keep her temper in check, “Don’t you remember your promise?”

“I promised not to go looking for her that was it.” Spencer replied, her eyes narrowing somewhat.

“Please, let’s not take sides on this issue. We all need to calm down here.” As per usual, her father was the voice of reason. Spencer grudgingly took her seat.

“Well, can I borrow the car?” She spoke after a moment; blue eyes glued to her still half full plate.

“Why?” A wary Paula replied, suspicious of her daughters’ intentions.

Spencer inhaled deeply, knowing she was about to start World War III at the Carlin family dinner table, “I have to see her.”