‘And when I get back to civilization, we go our separate ways.’ Spencer decreed to herself.

The day of Riley’s birthday dawned sunny and bright. The light burned the fog off the valley before mid morning and the weather was absolutely perfect. There was enough of a chill in the air to mean jackets were needed, but the sun warmed nicely and, clichéd though it was, the birds were singing. Spencer couldn’t help but be cheerful.

If the rest of the group noticed Spencer’s change in mood, they didn’t comment on it. Ashley was around early, clearly intending to be there for Riley’s day, and though she generally didn’t say much to Spencer, they found a sort of easy silence in each other’s presence.

The morning passed in a blur of presents, food, and good cheer. Riley confided to Spencer later that Ashley’s main gift had been one hell of an expensive music studio at home, equipped with piano, guitars, amps, drums and just about anything you could dream of. She hadn’t wanted to make a big deal out of it, so she’d bought some small things to the get away, but had shown Riley the night before they left. Riley could clearly barely contain her excitement, or her gratitude. And Spencer could see the genuine love and affection in Ashley’s eyes everytime she looked at the girl. Spencer had to stop herself from sighing.

In the afternoon, Riley had asked for another trip to the lake. Being her birthday they were all happy to oblige. The walk was fun, and Riley pointed out a small ridge rising above the lake on one side which was a nice hour or so walk to the peak, affording great views. As they made their way up the mountain, Spencer found herself slowly outstripping the group as one by one they slowed to look at the view or to chat to one another. They spread out along the path and Spencer found herself heading up alone. She was quite content and knew she’d catch the others at the top. Besides, she hadn’t gone for a jog in two days and she was going slightly crazy. She pushed herself harder and practically ran the rest of the way up the hill. Near the top, she was storming up the path so quickly she didn’t see the tree root butting it’s way up. Her shoe caught neatly underneath and suddenly she was sprawled face first in the dirt, her knee bouncing painfully off the path. Wincing, she got to her knees and felt a gentle hand on her shoulder.