In that hour of detention I learned a lot about Ashley. From the little things like what’s her favorite food and what’s her favorite color to the more personal things like how her dad had died when she was only 15 and that when she finally found the courage to come out, her mother practically shunned her. I felt really sad for her as she told me her story. In that moment I realized that I never wanted her to hurt like that again. I realized that I wanted to protect her, from anything and everything.

Spencer: So are any of the rumors true?

I asked her and she looked away from me for a moment. With that I action I kind of figured some of it wasn’t just rumors then.

Ashley: After my dad died I uh took a turn for the worst. I started drinking and doing drugs. Nothing too heavy just stuff that would keep me high so I didn’t have to deal with reality. Add that to wild parties and you’ve got yourself a world of trouble.

She said half chuckling to herself. I smiled.

Ashley: Then to top it off after I came out, my mom as I told you wasn’t too happy about that so I felt Id rather be in some other girl’s bed than my own.

She said seriously with a hint of sadness behind her eyes.

Ashley: so yes, some of them are true but some of them aren’t like the whole thing about me sleeping with half the girls in this school well that’s a lie. That would mean Id have to have sex with like 3 girls a day…which I don’t.

She said laughing and I laughed along with her. Mr. Marks looked up from grading his papers.

Mr. Marks: quiet down you two.

He said to us and we both rolled our eyes.

Ashley: I mean I haven’t slept with you and trust me Id remember if I had.

She said looking me in the eyes. I swear my face turned beet red. I think I just died a little. I ducked my head a couple of times like a fucking bobble head. God I was such a geek.

Ashley: So what’s your story? I’ve been talking this whole time and I realized I know nothing about you. So spill.