“Hey mom, I’m sorry for my reaction earlier,” I start.  “I have thought about what you and dad said, and I’m still not happy. I really wish you would have at least asked Glenn and I our opinions before making such a huge decision.  I mean this affects the whole family, I just don’t see why we couldn’t make it together.”  I sit on the edge of my bed and look down at the fingers in my lap.

            “I don’t want to go mom. I really truly don’t.  I know you think Ashley is just a stage in my life, but I…I just can’t be that far away from her. It hurts too much..” I look up to see the reaction on her face and am astonished to find something there that looks like understanding, hidden in the quiet lines of her face. 

            “I know it’s going to be hard Spencer. And I’m glad you want to talk about it.”  She finishes scribbling Spencer’s room across the box and tapes it shut, then moves to sit down on the comforter next to me, patting my knee.  “I promise once we get to Ohio it won’t seem like that far.  You can call Ashley every night and we’ll have her out to visit when you’re both on break.” 

            I look into her face as she smiles at me and nods her head. “I know you have feelings for Ashley, Spencer, and I’m not trying to separate you.  But this move is going to happen.  The sooner we all accept that, the sooner we can start making plans for the future.” She finishes and puts her arm around my shoulders. 

            I make a half effort at a smile but it turns into something more like a grimace.  I realize that my ultimatum has more or less been chosen for me and I nod slowly.  “Alright mom, I guess I’ll…try to make the best of it then…” I say sadly.  The best of everything is Ashley so trying to make Ohio seem good is going to be a challenge.

            Mom pulls me into a hug and then picks up the Brawny box, heading to the hallway.  “Speaking of Ashley, why don’t you call her and have her over for dinner? She can help you pack afterwards.” She says over her shoulder.