“Then why can’t you just tell me what happened if we’re so close?” she had a point, but I knew better.

“Because I don’t want you to hate me for what I let happen,” I choked back the image of the fire, the flames that echoed and crawled under my skin burning me for even years afterwards.

“Ashley,” it was all she said.

“Maybe someday I’ll tell you,” it wasn’t a promise. I wasn’t about to make her an empty promise.

“Fine,” she stated with no emotion for her voice leaving me to wonder how to interpret that.

“Are we cool then Spencer? Cause I can’t handle you mad at me,” I gave her the best puppy dog pout I could.

“Yeah, we’re fine Ash,” she couldn’t help but smile a little. I missed her smile.

I can’t take the distance
I can’t take the miles
I can’t take the time until I next see you smile
I can’t take the distance
And I’m not ashamed
I can’t take a breath without seeing your name

I can brave a hurricane
And still be standing tall when all the dust has settled down
But I can’t take the distance

That night I couldn’t help but think of all the other stunts I’ve pulled before. From school to school, I found new ways to create mayhem.

“So who’s the victim this week?” Max laughed.