“Here you go,” Ashley said.  “It’ll help you with you balancing out your equations better.”

“How did you answer the problem so quickly?” asked a surprised Spencer.

“I took chemistry at my old high school,” Ashley explained simply.  “I was the top student in my class.  So if you need any extra help, I’m here.  I have tips, lots and lots of tips.  I’ll be happy to share them with you on any time, any place, and any subject.”

“Alright I’ll have to think about it, but for the record the flirting was lame,” commented Spencer.  Ashley laughed.  “I’m glad you find me insulting you amusing.”

“We’ll make a deal,” Ashley began.  “I help you with chemistry and you help me flirt.” 

“Nice try,” said Spencer.  “Seriously, about the other night at Gray…”

“What about it?” Ashley asked.

“You were a completely different person,” began Spencer. 

“I’m sorry I beat up your girlfriend,” Ashley stated.

“You’re apologizing to the wrong girl though,” pointed out Spencer.

“Look, it’s hard for me,” Ashley admitted with a sigh.  “It’s hard seeing you two together at Gray that night and now seeing you in school, Spence.  I know I had a chance with you and I blew it.  I had been stringing you along.  The thing is I’m never going to stop trying.  It doesn’t matter how long it takes, but I’ll do whatever it takes in order to be with you.  You know that, right?”

“I don’t know what to believe anymore, Ashley,” admitted Spencer with a sigh.  “I don’t.  I want to believe you and what you have to say.”

“I’ll prove it to you then,” Ashley said.  “I’ll prove I’m worthy enough to be with you.”

“I have to go,” replied Spencer.  Spencer stood up and Ashley stood up as well.

“When will you stop running?” Ashley asked.

“What?” questioned Spencer in disbelief.

“Why do you keep running away from me?” Ashley asked hurt.  “Are you that afraid of me?”

“I’m not afraid of anything,” protested Spencer.

“You are,” Ashley sighed.  “You’re not as strong as you like everyone to believe you are.”

“Do you have a point?” asked an annoyed Spencer.  “If you do, it better be a good one.”

“Yes, I do,” Ashley answered.  “You may put up a tough exterior for the rest of the world, but I know that you’re just as scared as I am.”

“Believe whatever you want to believe,” stated Spencer. “Whatever helps you sleep at night, Ashley.  This conversation is over.”  Spencer picked up her things and left the library.  Ashley went after her.