I am so sorry for the massive delay between chapters, but to make up for it, this chapter is a monster (16 pages, longest one yet) AND I waited to post this until I finished the entire story! So after this chapter there are only two more and an epilogue! Special thank you to the random comments I got in my disappearing act and to Ashley who encouraged me to get off my lazy ass! I hope you enjoy, and I will post the next chapter as soon as I get motivation to edit it. Sorry for any errors!
Chapter 26: The Jump
Spencer hummed happily to herself as she waited to flip the chocolate chip pancake. She was excited, and impatient. The blonde never thought she would be able to pull this off (keeping a secret from a spy seemed like a terribly difficult task), but she had, and now she finally got to show off her hard work.
It had been a few weeks since their trip to Los Angeles, and things were almost back to normal, well, normal for them. During that time, Spencer's apartment had slowly transformed into their apartment; Spencer's couch had been replaced with Ashley's; the kitchen had received a dramatic upgrade; book shelves were purchased; music collections were integrated; things changed, but the one thing both women immediately agreed upon was they were not getting rid of the ikea dinning table.
Every time Spencer walked through their home and saw a small knick-knack from some random part of the world, or a spotted Ashley' favorite mug, the blonde couldn't help but smile. She had always imagined moving in with someone, being forced to share her space, as a terrible ordeal, but it was something she loved doing with Ashley.
Spencer eyed the clock knowing she needed to hurry if she wanted to get everything right. In the weeks that followed the trip from hell, Ashley had closely followed any and all activity in the CIA world. About two weeks after they left L.A., Geoff had mysteriously died. There was no doubt in any of their minds that it was the doing of Snider and Blake. They were turning on one another, and it made finding cracks in their façade that much easier. Ashley had slowly been sending pieces of evidence to her contact in D.C., trying to get the girl to follow the breadcrumbs to the truth.
One good thing had come out of the entire mess in Los Angeles. Madison had become a presence in the girls' lives. Ashley would talk to her almost daily about any and all spy related things, while Spencer got to chat with Madison about normal everyday things. It was Madison, in fact, that had inadvertently started the blonde on her epic surprise.
Spencer enjoyed talking to Madison, but what Spencer really loved was this unfiltered source to and about Ashley. Spencer had asked Madison about three weeks ago when Ashley's actual birthday was, and the Latina was more than happy to provide the blonde with the date, and thus plans upon plans were drafted by the excited young doctor. She had a little over 8 minutes before Ashley's birthday officially began, and she was determined to make this the best one the brunette had ever had.
It often occurred to Spencer just how much the brunette had done for her, and how lucky she was to have Ashley in her life. It wasn't only the big things, like fixing the Mustang, it was the everyday things; the coffee that greeted her in the morning, the bonding with her family, the single flower she would find when she opened her purse. It was Ashley dealing with her particular brand of crazy with a loving smile and a tender kiss.
Spencer smiled fondly remembering the exact moment she realized how absolutely perfect the brunette was. It was last Thursday, and the blonde had woken up at around midnight with the sudden urge to write about the dream she was having. She rolled out a bed, giving the grumbling brunette a quick kiss as apology for leaving and made her way to the dining table. After writing for about an hour, she went online and received an IM from Chelsea. It wasn't surprising that the other girl was up; she often painted late into the night.
About an hour and a half later the blonde and Chelsea were both sitting on top of the kitchen island, an obscene amount of Chinese food surrounding them while they chatted away. Ashley walked in, bed head and pajamas on, and gave both girls a soft smile when she saw realized what all the noise was. Ashley made her way over to the blonde, her arm snaking around her waist, shaking her head when Spencer began to apologize. The brunette rested a kiss on the blonde's hair and stole her fork to take a bite of her lo mein, never once questioning why this was happening, let alone happening at nearly three in the morning.
That night was definitely one of the reasons why the next 24 hours needed to go perfectly. Ashley loved her; every crazy, ugly, weird detail of her, and Spencer would try forever to be worthy of such unyielding love and support. Spencer flipped the last pancake onto the plate, and arranged all the food on the tray she had prepared.
Spencer slowly made her way into their bedroom, placing the tray on the dresser, so she could greet her girl properly. Spencer knelt by Ashley's side of the bed, softly stroking the hair out of Ashley's face, "Ash. Ashley, stop pretending to be asleep. I know you woke up the second I touched the door knob." Spencer said, a small smile forming.
Ashley may have stopped attacking her when she was startled from sleep, but that didn't mean Ashley had turned off her creepy Superman hearing. Brown eyes softly fluttered open and met the cool ocean blue one's that Ashley loved so very much. Spencer leaned in, giving the brunette a tender, sweet kiss.
"Happy birthday Ash." Spencer whispered, smiling when she saw Ashley's eyes widen in surprise before she softly smiled back. Spencer got up and retrieved the tray, only to settle it down on the, now, upright brunette.
"Spencer, its midnight and you are waking me up with breakfast in bed?" The brunette questioned, highly amused with the situation. She laughed out loud when she saw the candles covering her pancakes.
"Davies, I can't believe you tried to get away with not telling me it was your birthday! Celebrating birthdays might be one of my favorite things in the world to do, so I needed to make sure your energy levels would remain high all day. And, well, I figured you have never been woken up at midnight for your birthday with chocolate chip pancakes. Now blow out your damn candles."
Ashley did as instructed, with a sense of nostalgia washing over her. It had been 21 years since she last blew out birthday candles; it had been 21 years since she had bothered to notice it was her birthday. Ashley was so grateful to have someone give her all these moments again.
"I'm surprised you didn't give me Poptarts." The brunette said, grinning while she ate her pancakes, offering some to the blonde, who happily obliged.
After chewing, the blonde replied, "While Poptarts are the breakfast of champions, I figured you'd appreciate this."
Ashley could only laugh as they finished their meal together in bed. The tray was soon discarded, and the brunette found herself on her back, Spencer lying on top of her, chin resting on her chest. Ashley began to thread her hands through the blonde, messy hair.
"Now what Boss?" The brunette asked, curious as to what Spencer had planned.
With a mischievous glint in her eyes, Spencer replied, "We have a few hours to kill. I didn't want to take too much of your beauty rest considering how old and decrepit you are now."
Ashley scoffed at the girl, slightly offended at the playful remark. She quickly flipped their positions, now hovering above the younger girl. Spencer gave the girl a playful smile and said, "Careful Ash, wouldn't want you to break a hip."
The blonde's laughter was effectively silenced when Ashley gave her a heated kiss. The brunette could still feel Spencer smiling into the kiss, but it soon vanished when Ashley's hands began to roam the blonde's body. Ashley gave herself a point for the small victory.
"I know exactly how to use the time," Ashley whispered, her voice dripping with desire before she leaned down, her lips meeting Spencer's once again. Ashley's tongue slowly made its way into blonde's mouth, the lingering taste of pancakes and strawberries mixing together with something that was distinctly Spencer. The brunette eventually broke the kiss, and looked down at the slightly out of breath and disheveled girl.
Ashley smirked, snorted out an "old and decrepit my ass" before leaning back down to meet Spencer's lips. After all, they did have a few hours to kill.
Ashley woke up to a soft tap on her forehead, scampering feet, and slight giggling. The brunette's hand went up to her forehead, only to find a post-it stuck there. The spy began to smile when she read "follow the arrows… if you dare" in Spencer's messy scrawl. It was now 9:30 in the morning of her 29th birthday, and she was excited (terrified) as to what the blonde had planned.
Ashley's legs swung over the side of the bed, and scattered along the floor were neon arrows, leading her out of the bedroom and into the dining room/living room area. She grinned when she saw Spencer sitting on top of the dining table behind an entirely too large, lopsided chocolate cake, with (assumingly) 29 candles lit. Ashley's eyes followed the arrows, which lead to on top of the dining table as well, with a large hand drawn stop sign lying directly in front of the cake. With a slight grin and a small eye roll, the brunette climbed the table sitting directly in front of her cake and staring right at the happy blonde.
"Spence, your obsession with Sixteen Candles is getting a little out of hand."
Spencer simply rolled her eyes and replied, "Shut up and blow out your candles," and then a wicked little smile made its way on to her face as she continued, "or do you need a fire extinguisher to get them all?"
Ashley's let out a large laugh before she hunched over and blew out the candles on her cake. As they both worked to pull out all the candles, Ashley had to know, "So how many more times am I going to blow out candles."
Spencer smiled a little sheepishly and said, "Well, let's just say anyone having a birthday within the next week will have some trouble finding candles in town." Ashley, again, laughed at this, but stopped when she noticed the serious look on Spencer's face. Lifting her eyebrow at the expression, Spencer simply grabbed the spy's hand and replied softly, "I just want to make sure all your wishes come true." The blonde then ducked her head down blushing, as she busied herself with the plates and cutting the cake.
Ashley stopped the girl's movements and gave her a soft kiss. Both girls were still a little bashful when it came to sprouting the sincere, corny thoughts they both had, but it didn't stop them from sharing.
Ashley noticed the blonde only burned herself once while making the cake; it was probably a record for Spencer. Despite that, they happily munched on cake when Spencer questioned, "Have you ever eaten cake for breakfast before?" The brunette grinned and shook her head no. The blonde's smile widened at hearing this, "Good because today, for your wonderful day of birth, I am giving you a day of firsts! So hurry and eat your breakfast, so you can go shower and get ready for the day. Normal, casual clothing please. There is so much to do!" Spencer was getting more and more excited the longer she thought about their plans and was soon a fidgety mess. Ashley gave the girl an amused look.
"Spence, how many cups of coffee have you had today?"
"One."
"Okay, two."
"Fine, jeez, five!"
"And maybe one more after the fifth cup."
Ashley shook her head in amusement at the crazy girl sitting in front of her. She slowly got off the table after finishing her (large) piece of cake. Before Spencer could scramble off the table, Ashley made her way to the girl, and kissed her, slowly, passionately, and with love. Pulling back slightly, their foreheads resting against one another, Ashley's nose softly nuzzling the girl's cheek she whispered, "Thank you Spencer, for everything." And with one final peck, Ashley made her way towards the bathroom to get ready for her day, leaving a slightly dazed blonde sitting on top of the dining table.
When the brunette emerged from the bedroom, fully dressed and ready for her day, she was met with silence. After calling out Spencer's name a few times, she realized she was alone. A quick scan around the living room led the spy to finally notice the neon green arrow pointing at the front door. Letting out a little laugh, Ashley opened the front door, expecting to see a smiling blonde, but found more arrows.
Ashley began to chuckle when she noticed neon arrows leading her towards the park. The arrows ran through the town, taped to the asphalt of the street, stuck in lawns, hanging from weighted balloons, and even covering traffic signs. Ashley was amazed Spencer was able to hang up so many arrows, let alone in such a public space.
The brunette smiled as she followed them through the town. She reached one arrow placed delicately on top of a gift-wrapped box with a small tag reading "To Copperhead, with all my love, Black Mamba." Ashley opened the present only to be met with a shinning plastic princess tiara. Ashley smiled as she pulled it out, noticing writing scrawled on the box beneath the gift: "If you don't put this on, I will be forced to use my bad ass spy moves on you. No one messes with the Mamba." Ashley felt absolutely crazy laughing as hard as she was alone in the street.
As Ashley strolled through the small town (tiara on her head) strangers gave her giant, knowing grins, greeting her with "Happy birthday's" and "Spencer is up to it again, huh?" It was wonderful and unsettling all at once.
The brunette found another present resting in the grass, balloons attached. Ashley picked it up, rolling her eyes, but smiling when she realized Spencer had wrapped an old wooden cane, the note attached simply read: "You will be needing this soon enough."
The brunette continued her journey, following the arrows, and heard her destination rather than saw it. She could hear music blasting, and the laughing and screaming of children, the loudest one being Spencer. Ashley's eyes finally fell upon the scene. Near the picnic tables and BBQ pits Spencer was being chased by a heard of laughing children.
The blonde had set up a party for her in the park. Ashley saw Arthur safe guarding the cooler with an amused expression on his face as he watched his youngest daughter being attacked by cute, little children. Chelsea was painting the faces of the kids who couldn't be bothered to run around in circles with the blonde, while Clay and Glen were setting up what looked like a My Little Pony piñata.
Spencer, running for her life, looked up and finally noticed the brunette had joined them. Shrieking out "AAASSSHHHHLLLLEEEYYYYY," she ran full speed (tripping only once) towards her wonderful spy, quickly hiding behind her in hopes of gaining some protection.
Ashley laughed while Spencer practically climbed onto her back and swarms of kids ran after them. The group of 7 or 8 children chasing them soon brought down the two women. They were all sort of a lump on the ground, laughing when Arthur finally called a truce between everyone and the children quickly complied. Arthur asked the kids to wish Ashley a happy birthday, and kid after kid either gave Ashley a birthday hug, high-five, or small wave while introducing themselves.
Chelsea called the kids over for a game of Pin the Tail on Clay (much to his horror), so the couple finally got a moment to themselves.
"Spence."
"Ash." The blonde teased, seeing the love shinning in her girlfriend's eyes.
"When did you do all this? Who are these kids?" Ashley questioned stepping closer to the young doctor.
"I told you I love celebrating birthdays. And I figured you probably never got a full kid birthday in the park, at least not one for a while. So, some of the kids from the children's ward in the hospital were invited, and some of Dad's kids from the counseling center came, and here we are." Spencer got a little shy explaining part one of Ashley's big day.
Ashley smiled at the thought of not only getting the sweetest party, but also bringing some joy into the lives of all the children she had just met. Ashley looked around quickly to make sure no small eyes were staring, and gave Spencer a quick peck on the lips.
"Thank you. This is wonderful." Spencer looked at Ashley and smiled, fixing the tiara that had gone slightly askew.
"Anytime. I'm glad you found the gifts and the arrows."
"Yea, the cane should come in handy considering I had to run around with you on my back." Ashley replied with a small smirk on her face. Spencer only laughed, lacing their fingers together as they made their way to the group.
"Hey Spence, how exactly did you get all those arrows up? I mean, you literally had some hanging on traffic lights." The brunette questioned, still amazed that no one had cleaned up the mess Spencer had made.
Spencer began to blush slightly, "I may have brought it up at the town hall meeting when I asked you to get me a cookie from the bakery."
Ashley could only laugh.
A couple hours, a broken piñata, and an ice cream cake later the small party in the park had ended. Much to the amusement of the children, Ashley was able to break the piñata on her first try (with her new cane no less), despite the blindfold, and the spinning, and Clay and Glen trying their hardest to keep it from the brunette. Ashley merely smirked before making all the candy rain down.
The ice cream cake was giant. Spencer had mentioned needed something so big because of the copious amount of candles Ashley's birthday required. She was met with eye rolls from Ashley and her brothers, a disbelieving scoff from her father, and Chelsea inappropriately calling Ashley a cougar for the rest of the party.
Glen had been given the task of ushering Ashley onto the next phase of Operation: Ashley's Birthday Spectacular (Glen fought the urge to roll his eyes over how lame Spencer could be). The two followed another set of neon arrows, leading them away from the park and back towards the town's square.
Ashley was having a wonderful day, and found it difficult to imagine what else Spencer had in mind for her. She knew it would be fairly easy to trick it out of the blonde boy walking with her, but decided she didn't want to ruin her blonde's hard work, so she remained quiet.
"I can't believe you have never had ice cream cake." Glen said, shaking his head in disbelief.
Ashley gave him a half smile, "I kind of had a weird childhood. My mom died when I was really young, and it sort of wrecked my dad."
Glen shifted a little awkwardly. He liked Ashley, he really did. So much so that if she ever hurt Spencer, he would be pretty sad while he slashed Ashley's tires in retaliation. Hearing the brunette talk about her sad childhood made him want to wrap the girl up in one of those Carlin bear hugs that make her squirm uncomfortably unless it is given by Spencer.
"Sucks dude."
Ashley smiled softly at Glen, nodding her head in agreement. Arthur had a special place in Ashley's heart, Clay while sweet, was terribly unaware, Chelsea still slightly terrified the brunette, but Glen, Glen was definitely her second favorite Carlin. His stunted maturity and overall secretly sensitive façade was something Ashley related to. He didn't ask her for the frills, and he didn't deal with the bullshit. With Glen you get what is front of you, and that was something Ashley found deep comfort in.
"Spence likes to go all out for birthdays. She always has. When we were growing up, she was the kid that loved making a terrible breakfast in bed for our parents on their birthday, you know, eggs with pieces of shell in it still, or half cooked pancakes.
"She got better at the stuff as we got older. I remember for Chelsea's 19th birthday, she got the chef of Chelsea's favorite restaurant in town to drive all the way up to Berkley with her because Chelsea missed the food while she was in college. And for Clay's 24th, while he was in law school, Spencer somehow managed to get him a key to the library so he could come and go as he pleased."
Ashley smiled. Loving birthdays and over the top displays of affection seemed right up the blonde's alley. "And for you? What has Spencer done for you?"
Glen smiled, "My 17th birthday, probably the best one. She some how managed to get the entire Varsity Cheerleading squad to come to my pool party."
Ashley laughed, "That's your best one?"
"Ashley! Pool party. VARSITY Cheerleaders." Glen repeated, looking at Ashley like she was a mental patient for even questioning him.
The two walked along in silence for a little while longer, following the green arrows that paved their way. Glen shoved his hands in his pockets slowing his pace slightly,
"She is kind of amazing. Spencer, I mean. Well, I guess you know considering you moved in with her. But man, she is my rock. I could do anything when we were younger, push her, tease her, but she always had my back no matter what dumbass thing I did.
"She had applied all over the country for med school when Mom first got diagnosed; she got in everywhere, I think, even this fancy program in London. But as soon as she heard Mom was sick she accepted UCLA's offer because it was the closest to home. Mom was so proud of her when she graduated. I think Mom was even more proud of the stories Spencer wrote though. My mom and my dad are the only ones that Spencer let read her stuff.
"We all thought that Spencer would move somewhere far away after Mom died. She, again, had offers all over the country to work at different hospitals, but she didn't say a word and just accepted Mom's old position. I think it was her way of taking care of all of us. She has always been this kind of glue that has held our family together."
Ashley was listening to Glen with rapt fascination. Spencer was modest when it came to these things; the doctor had never mentioned all the opportunities she passed up for her family. Ashley had also never heard Glen speak so candidly about something heartfelt; she would have to remember to make fun of him later.
"Spencer has always been that type of person though. My parents use to say she trips and falls so much because she has such a big heart. She does have a giant heart, so it makes sense that she silently keeps us all together the way she does. And for better or worse she has folded you into the mix, so just know Spencer isn't the only family you have now, you have all of us."
The two had stopped near the local single screen movie theater. Ashley was kind of shocked silent while she regarded Glen's words. She had no idea what to say, how to thank this boy for those words and reassurances, so the brunette simply pulled him into a hug and whispered a soft "thank you".
The two pulled away while Spencer approached them. Spencer eyed her older brother suspiciously when she saw the look on her spy's face. Glen smiled, giving Ashley a small push, "Don't get all soft on me now Davies."
Ashley's arm slipped around Spencer's waist, "Don't worry Carlin. Only reason I put up with you is because you have a hot sister."
Glen let out a loud laugh while Spencer rolled her eyes at the two. Spencer then pulled Ashley towards the movies while thanking her brother for bringing Ashley there.
Spencer pulled Ashley along, passing the box office without a glance.
"Uh, Spence, I think you forgot about getting the tickets." Ashley replied, fixing her tiara that had gone slight askew from being pulled around.
Spencer gave Ashley a small smirk before replying, "You get a senior citizen discount right?" It was Ashley's turn to roll her eyes; Spencer ignored it. "Haven't you heard Ash? Tickets are for suckers."
Spencer led them right past the usher at the front door and straight to the concession stand, much to the brunette's relief/surprise. Spencer then proceeded to order an obscene amount of candy, popcorn, and drinks. And with one final pull, Spencer led them into the completely empty theater. They settled in the middle of the theater and Ashley finally gave the girl a questioning looking.
"Before I explain, let's get this out of the way." Spencer then took a junior mint and shoved a birthday candle in it. Ashley laughed and blew out the single candle Spencer had just lit.
"I remember you said that you had never really been on a normal, real date-date. So, I am taking you to the movies and I will be walking you home and giving you a first date kiss and everything."
Ashley smiled softly at the blonde, "Still doesn't explain your mafia connections at the movie theater, and why no one else is in this room."
Spencer looked at Ashley a little nervously, "Well, I may have rented the theater out for us and this special showing."
Ashley's eyes widened in shock, "Spence you didn't have to-"
"I know. I wanted to, so shut up and enjoy it, okay?"
Ashley was overwhelmed with love for the girl sitting in front of her. She pulled the blonde into a sweet, lingering kiss trying to convey how grateful she was. Spencer began laughing into the kiss when she heard Ashley drop the popcorn onto the floor to tangle her hands into blonde hair.
Ashley pulled back slightly and saw the amusement in Spencer's eyes. "I may have rented the theater, but I am pretty sure we aren't allowed to have sex in here."
Ashley scoffed, "Like I would put out on the first date!"
Spencer got that gleam in her eye and simply replied, "My mistake, I forgot the older generations are full of prudes."
Ashley couldn't help but smile, "You do realize I am only 9 months older than you right?"
"Excuses, excuses Davies. Don't get jealous because I am young and beautiful."
"Young? Sure. Beautiful, not so much." Ashley teased, giving the blonde's hand a playful squeeze. "So what are we watching?"
"Big Fish and Casablanca. You said Big Fish reminds you of me, so I decided to be vain and play that. And well Casablanca speaks for itself."
"Sounds perfect."
And with that the girls snuggled up to one another while the lights dimmed down, and the first movie began.
The couple was slowly strolling home, following the neon green arrows that would lead them there. Both were quiet, enjoying the other's company without the need for words.
The date had been perfect, after the first movie, Spencer had set up a late lunch of pizza (with candles on top), and the blonde even let Ashley have the last slice. Ashley almost fell off of her chair; Spencer loved her food, and the brunette knew it was rare for her to give it up with a smile (despite the fact that Spencer had already eaten five pieces to Ashley's two).
Ashley silently gripped the hand in hers a little more firmly. Spencer was absolutely perfect. Sure, she was kind of crazy and often got lost in her little world, and yes Spencer loved arguing with Ashley, just to get her all riled up, but Spencer has done and given the spy so much, the brunette was sure she could never repay her.
It was little things like Spencer leaving her the comic section of the newspaper, or not uttering a word while silently nursing a cup of coffee because Ashley caught a random case of insomnia. It was the blonde secretly, and purposely, breaking things around the apartment and asking the brunette to fix it so Ashley would have something to do. It was Spencer's silent understanding of the spy's need to sleep and sit closest to the door. It was them laying on the couch, Ashley's head settled into Spencer's lap, while Spencer read Ashley the stories she had written and swore never to reveal.
But it was also the big things: The way Spencer would, without hesitation, rush head first into danger if it meant protecting Ashley. Or the new life and family the blonde had so subtly given to Ashley. The love Ashley felt from Spencer day in and day out is something so foreign, but so insanely addictive. Spencer understood her, and loved her despite the many emotional and social handicaps that Ashley had. The goofy blonde doctor taught her a lighter side to life Ashley had been lacking for years. She was the strongest person in Ashley's life, while simultaneously being the softest. And Ashley knew Spencer felt the same way about her.
So this display, while so kind and thoughtful of Spencer, was completely unnecessary. Ashley had gotten more from Spencer in these past two months than most people get in a lifetime. A fact Ashley was sure she would never forget.
Spencer slowed the pace of their walk when they reach the front door of their apartment. Hands still linked, the blonde gave Ashley a giant smile.
"Well I hope you enjoyed the date." Spencer gives Ashley a devilish smile before continuing, "I thought someone of your age would have totally fallen asleep during the second movie."
Ashley laughed at the comment, "The old jokes aren't going to stop being amusing to you huh?"
Spencer shook her head smile still lighting up her face. The blonde took a step a little closer towards her girl whispering out, "Too forward if I kiss you on the first date?"
It was Ashley's turn to shake her head, and before she could fully process it, Spencer's lips had met her own in a soft, sweet kiss. Spencer pulled back slightly, a smile lingering on her lips. The blonde let out a small, "umph" when her back collided against their front door, and Ashley's body pressed into her own, their lips fusing together.
The kiss was heated and loving, Ashley's hands were roaming the blonde's body, when the door swung open, and both girls stumbled. Luckily, Ashley was able to keep their balance despite losing the support of the door. Chelsea stood in the doorway, hands on her hips, with a little smile on her face.
"Okay kids, do I need to hose you off? Ashley! I thought with your old age and infinite wisdom you wouldn't act like such a harlot!"
Spencer laughed and Ashley slightly blushed, replying, "Spencer started it."
Again Spencer laughed, "Hey! My kiss was a sweet and innocent first date kiss, you were the one that stepped it up to NC-17!"
Ashley looked shocked at the accusation, but before she could rebuttal Chelsea cut her off, "As cute as the Ashley loves Spencer show is, Ashley and I have things to do, and Spencer so do you, so get out of here."
Spencer gave her best friend a big smile, and the confused brunette a quick peck on the cheek before hightailing it out of there.
Ashley turned towards Chelsea, questions marring her face, but the young artist simply rubbed her hands together, gave the brunette a smile and said, "You are all mine now Spencer's Ashley!"
Ashley's face paled.
Ashley released a shaky breath. It broke every instinct in her body to go along with Spencer's plan right now. After Spencer left, Chelsea got to play dress up with the brunette. Ashley found herself dressed in a beautiful champagne colored dress (one that was obviously purchased by Spencer for this occasion), blindfolded and ushered into a limo that waited outside the apartment. Ashley was now being ushered by said limo driver to an unknown location, blindfold still in place.
She walked through a door of some sort, and then heard the driver excuse himself. Ashley reached her hand forward, instantly finding Spencer.
"It will never not be creepy that I can't sneak up on you." Spencer said; Ashley could hear the soft smile in her voice. The blonde reached up and pulled the knot keeping Ashley's blindfold in place, careful not to move the tiara.
The brunette's eyes landed on the girl standing in front of her. She wanted to look around, take in the scene, but she was unable to tear her eyes away from the stunning woman in front of her. Spencer stood in a beautiful, soft, blue dress making her eyes that much more brilliant, her hair was up, allowing Ashley's gaze to explore the exposed neck and shoulders. The blonde's makeup was flawless, and Ashley struggled to find the right words to describe how wonderful Spencer looked.
"You are too beautiful to express in words." Ashley finally exhaled, having trouble finding her voice.
"I know that exact feeling Davies." Spencer replied, a soft smile gracing her face, as her hand came up to tenderly stroke Ashley's cheek. Spencer stepped next to the brunette, finally allowing the girl to take in the scene before her.
They were in the gym of the local high school, which was covered in decorations for their fall dance. Streamers and balloons were everywhere, a dance floor in the center of the many different tables. Spencer had lit candles, covering the entire gym in a gentle glow. A small boom box sat on one of the tables, along with a chilling bottle of champagne and what Ashley assumed was their dinner. Ashley could smell the soft aroma of the roses and lilies that were placed all over the gym.
"The high school is having a dance in a few days, and Glen was able to get me a copy of the key to set this up. I know you have never had the whole 'going to a school dance' experience, so I wanted to give you this." Spencer said, her voice a little timid.
Ashley reached her hand down, lacing their fingers together, "It's perfect."
Spencer led them to the table, smiling as she reached for a small box that held Ashley's corsage. The brunette smiled as Spencer slipped the lily and rose arrangement onto her wrist.
The girls danced, laughed, took pictures, chugged the champagne, and finally enjoyed the meal Spencer had prepared. It was a perfect evening. Ashley sat at the table while Spencer went to grab something. The blonde returned with a tray of 29 cupcakes, each holding a single, lit candle.
"Make a wish Ash." Spencer whispered, her eyes glowing in the soft lighting. Ashley blew out the candles, a smile adorning her face.
Spencer pulled up a chair next to the brunette, and reached under the table and pulled out a medium sized, flat gift.
"I'm nervous to give you your gift." The blonde said, with a small half smile.
"Spencer, this was all too much, I don't need a gift on top of it."
Spencer just smiled, and placed the gift in Ashley's hand. The brunette began tearing into the present, freezing when she caught glimpse of it. In Ashley's lap sat an 8x10-framed photo of herself and her parents. Ashley couldn't have been older than 3 years old in the picture; her father was holding her up in the air while her mother stood by their side, all three sharing the biggest smile on their face. A tear hit the glass before she knew she was even crying.
"I, um, looked into your family a little bit. Your mom was really good friends with a photography professor at the university they taught at. She moved away when you were about four years old. I found her; she lives in Chicago now. I told her who I was, and told her that my beautiful, sweet girlfriend was the daughter of Christine Davies. She began to cry. She said she was at the funeral, and had lost track of your father after that.
"I explained that your father had passed away when you were in your teens, and I didn't really go much further into that, but I asked if she might have any photos of you and your parents. She sent an entire box over for you to look at. She also said she would love to meet us, talk to you about your mother."
Ashley was finally able to rip her gaze away from the photo to look at Spencer. Her blue eyes were filled with warmth and love. Ashley opened her mouth to speak, but nothing came out. Spencer gave her a soft smile; her hand reached out and grabbed Ashley's. The blonde soothingly stroked the brunette's wrist with her thumb.
"Ash, you are literally the person I have been dreaming about my whole life. I may never have envisioned double lives, or corrupt CIA happenings, but they are all just part of what makes you so perfect and amazing. I have never been happier than I am with you, in this very moment, and every other moment that we are in each other's presence. I truly believe that everything I am and everything I have done has led me to you, and no matter what lifetime, galaxy, or situation, I would love you.
"So I wanted to do something special for you. Because you know how cold my feet get at night and you cover them with your own, and because you deal with the craziness that is me and my family, and because you only smile when I ramble on and on about the greatness of a good/bad 90's movie. You love me for everything I am, and everything I am not. And while I could never repay you for that, I can love you exactly the same way, and I can try and make every one of your wishes come true.
I wanted to give you your family, or least a part of them and I didn-"
Ashley finally cut Spencer off with a kiss. The brunette's head was swimming. The blonde had given her everything, and so much more and her overwhelming feelings of love and joy just needed to find Spencer.
The kiss was deep and passionate, and the girls lost themselves in it. Some how, they managed to make it onto the floor, Ashley lying gently on top of Spencer; and some how, they managed to get each other out of their dresses, soft kisses and delicate hands trailing the newly exposed flesh; and Ashley, some how, figured out how to show Spencer how grateful she was and how much she loved her.
The two were getting dressed, smiles plastered on their faces as they did. Spencer had brought them both changes, jeans and simple blouses. Ashley was mildly concerned why she would need another outfit change, but remained silent.
Spencer stood upright, while stretching her back a little, "Well, if I knew that was going to happen, I definitely would have set up a bed somewhere. Look at you Ash, getting into the cliché sex after prom thing!"
The brunette scoffed a little, her eyes roaming Spencer's underwear clad body. Ashley walked towards the blonde, almost fully dressed expect for a top. Her arms wrapped around Spencer's small waist, as she places soft, sweet kisses on the girl's neck.
"You sure we just can't go home to our bed? I'll be as cliché as you like."
Spencer smiled, "That doesn't even make sense Ash, plus, you have one more surprise!" The blonde gave the girl another peck and hurried to finish getting dressed.
After cleaning the gym up a little, and blowing out all the candles, the two exited the building to find the last set of neon green arrows leading them to their next destination. Spencer assured the brunette someone would be there soon to pick up all their items and make sure the gym would be ready for the high school kids.
Spencer excitedly pulled the brunette along, while Ashley purposely walked as slow as possible just to annoy Spencer.
"Aaaasssshhhhh come on! We have a schedule to adhere to!" Spencer whined, before getting a devilish smile, which she followed with a firm slap to Ashley's ass.
Ashley looked at Spencer in shock (a small smile on her face), while Spencer stood looking innocent. Before Ashley could say anything, the blonde started running away, laughing and calling Ashley old.
Ashley began to chase the blonde, laughing as well, as the two followed the arrows. Ashley was easily catching up to the blonde, and Spencer sighed in relief when she saw their destination. She ran through the doors of one of two local bars the small town had, just as Ashley had caught her around the waist, laughing into the blonde's hair.
Ashley jumped back (with Spencer in her arms) when the loud "Surprise!" erupted through the room. The bar was crowded with so many people; Ashley immediately spotted Clay, Glen, and Chelsea. She saw Glen's girlfriend Staci, smile on her face, along with numerous townspeople that brunette had interacted with during her time here. Smiling faces, all under a banner that read "Happy Birthday Ashley!" She was shocked, and overwhelmed, but so, so happy.
Spencer reached down and laced her fingers through Ashley's and led her forward. On the bar sat 29 shots of something topped with whipped cream, each holding a candle. Ashley looked around again, knowing she had found a home, a place where she fit, then looked to Spencer before blowing out her birthday shots.
Ashley was drunk. Spencer was even more drunk. She had no idea why, but both were laughing so hard they had to stop walking. The party had been a success. Karaoke was sung, presents were shared, alcohol was consumed, and over all debauchery occurred.
At one point Ashley may have sat Clay down and given him a long lecture about how wonderful Chelsea is, and how he needs to pull his head out of his ass and ask her out. The phrase "wind beneath my wings" may even have been used. A shell shocked Clay seemed in a daze after hearing this information, so rather than wait for him, Ashley may have beaten Chelsea in a shot for shot competition, which resulted in Chelsea having to sit in Clay's lap and make out with his face.
Ashley wanted to help Chelsea out; she loved the girl. Loved her like you love your crazy little sister that constantly caught you making out with your boyfriend after curfew. Ashley loved Chelsea like you love a crazy, psychotic dog that goes from wanting to bite off your hand to twenty seconds later cuddling up to you and giving you a soft lick on the cheek. Yea that is exactly how I love Chelsea, half terrified, half, um, not terrified.
The moment the Clay and Chelsea began to kiss, literally everyone in the bar cheered, few shouts of finally's, and Spencer giving Ashley the most loving stare in the planet. Shortly after, Clay and Chelsea were reported missing from the party. But the celebration went on, as did the drinking, and singing, and oddly enough arm wrestling.
Now the girls were making their way home, albeit, slowly. Spencer kept trying to see how long she could hold her breathe for, but laughed at 7 seconds every time. Ashley decided that walking backwards, on her hands, would be the most entertaining way to walk home, but every time Spencer would laugh, she would start laughing, and fall over. At least this was more discrete than when Ashley ran up a wall and black flipped off it (she was trying to impress Spencer).
Both girls had collapsed in the grass they were walking through from their giggle fit. Spencer was on top of the brunette, enjoying the position.
"That was totally the best party."
Ashley smiled, "Totally."
"I wish Henry was here. He was totally the best party horse."
"Mmmmhmmmm." Ashley responded but was slight distracted by the soft fingers tracing over her face, and the warm body pressed so nicely into hers.
"Ashley, I have a secret." Ashley popped up an eyebrow silently asking the girl to continue. "I totally want to have sex with you when we get home, but my body refuses to move."
Before Spencer could process what was happening, she had been swept up in Ashley's arms, her legs wrapped around the spy's waist, and Ashley started jogging towards their home.
Spencer started laughing, loving Ashley's eagerness, and rewarded her with a slow kiss. They were less than a block away from the apartment, and she knew Ashley didn't need to pay attention for the duration of the walk.
The kisses were heated, Ashley's hands slowly moving down to cup Spencer's ass. Spencer's tongue was softly tracing Ashley's rapidly parting lips, her hands weaving through the brunette's curls. The kiss only broke once when Ashley tripped over a curb, but once their balance was established, the kissing continued. They were a few steps from their front door, when Ashley heard a rustling.
Spencer had no idea how, but she was instantly standing behind Ashley, Ashley protectively blocking her from harm, one arm reaching back and blocking her way. Spencer's head was reeling, she was literally kissing her girl all of 2 seconds ago, but she held back a gasp when she saw someone standing in the dark in front of their door.
Spencer could see Ashley's tense shoulders and muscles, so the blonde silently grabbed the girl's hand. The figure slowly stepped out of the dark.
Spencer relaxed when she realized it was Madison, but Ashley remained tense.
Madison looked at the two slightly disheveled girls, before saying, "Aiden is dead. The CIA knows you are alive."