A/N Here you are, yet another one for you. I took a few liberties here after a discussion with my girlfriend, hope I don't offend anyone but I think the majority will like it as much as I did. Anyway, that's all for now so get reading! Lil'D

Previously on Bringing it Home

"She asked Addison?" Maggie practically squeaked.

"Yeah", I nodded.

"I thought they didn't get on that well?" Maggie sounded very surprised, she wasn't around at school to see how well they actually got on.

"No, they're pretty close now." I confirmed as I held the underwear against me and looked in the mirror. "They are actually more similar than I realised at first, Kate too." I caught her eyes in the mirror and recognised the darkening of arousal as she took in my reflection.

xxxxxxxxxx

I had just been tinkering on the cars with Kate when Spencer called, I was curious to know what was up that couldn't wait for school, so was Kate it seemed.

"What's up?" Kate was curious and tossed me a rag to wipe off my hands.

"Spence needs to talk," I shrugged my ignorance.

"She OK?" Her beautiful face creased in a frown, indicating her worry.

"I think so, I don't know," I second guessed myself. "I think it's probably to do with Ashley." I sighed and relaxed back into Kate's strong arms as she came up behind me.

"They OK?" Her tone was worried and her arms tightened around me as she rested her chin on my shoulder.

"Um, yeah, I think so but I gave Ash that stuff we ordered for them after school this week." The words explained my concern.

"Oh," there was a pause, "think Spence will be OK?" Kate had helped me pick a few things for the couple so she understood where my thoughts were.

"I think that's why she needs to talk, you OK with staying here?" I was hoping she wouldn't feel hurt that Spencer had only asked for me given the likely topic of conversation.

"Nah, I'm good here babe, it's you she needs right now Ad," I nodded, I knew she'd understand.

"I better get going hun," I freed myself from the embrace and turned for a kiss. "I love you Katie," I murmured against her lips and she held me tight as she kissed me back.

"It'll be OK babe," Kate reassured me, knowing I needed a little support for what lay ahead. "I know how hard it is for you but she still loves you ya know." She pressed her forehead against mine and I nodded.

"I know babe, I know," another hug and kiss and I left her with the cars.

I didn't bother changing, just washed up and grabbed a quick sandwich as I had skipped lunch then jumped in Phoenix and headed over to Spencer's.

"Hi," she was opening the door as I was locking my car, must have been waiting downstairs and heard me pull up. "Hey babe, what's up, you OK?" She nodded and gave me a smile. It wasn't until she turned and gestured me to follow her inside that I realised what she was wearing. Her hair was wet so she'd obviously just showered and thrown on some boxers and a cami, not a lot left up the the imagination. I made sure to get a good look as I followed her first into the kitchen where we grabbed some water then upstairs to her room.

"Nobody home?" I questioned, she shrugged.

"Not right now but my folks are around but I don't know about Glen, he's probably with Chelsea, they spend a lot of time together now. Least he's not off with the skanks as usual." She shook her head at her brothers behaviour.

Both the Carlin twins were in high demand but I knew Glen was happy to spread the love whereas you know Spencer had been more selective. She'd expressed her concern about it more than once, usually joking that she didn't want any Glen spawn appearing but I know she loved him and it was her way of showing him her concern. I often forgot how close they were but as soon as you saw them together it was obvious in the way the joked around or finished each others sentences. I wasn't surprised when Ashley confessed she'd thought they were dating the first time she'd seen them together. Anyway I followed her upstairs, it was a running joke with all of us that we would always let Spencer go first if there was any stairs involved so we could all get a happy. Yep, you've guessed it Maddy always made sure she was at the very back.

xxx

Addy followed me into my room and stood around not knowing quite what to do with herself, she hadn't spent much time in here, we usually met up at Kate's house as it was a guaranteed parent free zone. She met my eyes and I took a minute to look her over, she was wearing some faded blue jeans, they looked a little big so I assumed they were Kate's, she had a fuller figure than Addison, didn't mean they didn't look good though as they still hung off her in all the right places, just gave her a sexy skate kinda look. She'd obviously been working on her car as the tight white beater she was wearing had oil stains on it, I wasn't complaining as the overall look was extremely hot and so different from what we normally got.

"Sorry," she waved a hand over herself self-deprecatingly, "I didn't bother changing, I should have though."

"Hey, it's OK," I interrupted her, "do I look like I'm complaining?" She shook her head

"Sorry," she muttered before raising those emerald green eyes to mine. "So what's up?" I sighed and dropped my head back and stared at the ceiling for a second before returning my gaze to her.

"I think you know?" I scooted onto my bed and gestured for her to make herself comfortable, after shooting a look at my couch and then back to the bed she hesitantly sat opposite me at the end of the bed. "You OK?" I frowned as I took in her unsettled behaviour.

"Um, yeah, it's just a little weird for me, being this close to you, alone." I frowned at her comment, I'd not picked up anything odd in her behaviour up to this point. Sure, she was less hands on than we had been before Ash and I hooked but but this was very uncharacteristic of her and I was a little concerned.

xxx

"Come here sweetie," she patted the bed next to her and I sighed and finally gave in. I walked around to the other side of the bed and settled next to her on the bed, lying on my back with my legs crossed at the ankles and hands on my stomach.

"So, what's up?" I questioned, deflecting the attention off me for a while. She turned turned on her side and propped her head on her elbow so she was looking down on me. Those blue eyes delved deep into mine but then broke away without comment.

"I think Ash wants to play a bit tonight," she sighed as she settled onto her back next to me again.

"I thought that was it," I was silent for a bit before I replied. "So what's the problem, you too are so into each other it's untrue." I risked stating the obvious but I needed Spencer to fully voice her fears before we could progress.

"Yeah, I love her so much." I smiled at the depth of felling in her voice, I felt that way about Kate,

and Spencer.

"I know Spence, I know. So what's the problem?" I pushed again.

"I'm scared Addy," she finally admitted after an indefinite pause.

"Why?" She moved slightly so she could reach my hand and joined it with hers, lying loosely on the bed between us.

"I don't want to hurt her," at this I turned my face so I could get a better read on her expression.

"You won't hurt her, you love her." I knew we were talking emotionally, Ash could still be quite fragile and although it rarely showed day to day I knew that when they were together all the walls came down. Well, I made that assumption as I knew it was that way with Kate and I, Spencer too.

"What if I can't do it Addy?" There was an edge of panic creeping into her tone now. Kneeling up I looked down at her and cupped her cheek with my spare hand, turning her head and forcing her to meet my eyes.

"You'd have let me." It wasn't a question, it was a fact. She nodded but kept her eyes locked on mine. "So why do you think it would be an issue with Ashley?" Her mouth parted and a worried frown appeared as she bit her lip. "Spence?" I stroked her cheek with my thumb as I waited for her answer.

"Because, because you would know what to do if I fought you. I might hurt her," she whispered.

"No," I shook my head at her words, "you don't need to worry about that," I reassured her with a soft smile. "I talked to Ash, she'll be OK, know what to do." The blue eyes widened, "you told her to talk to me so she did." I shrugged, thinking back to the odd conversation I'd had with Ashley a couple of weeks ago. "She understands Spence, um, I, I didn't give her any details, that's for the two of you but she knows not to push it OK?" I felt her body relax as she exhaled.

"You sure?" I grinned down at her.

"I'm sure, I mean have you seen yourself around her? You're going to be begging her for it, not wanting to fight and run." I smirked and bent down to kiss her forehead. "You'll be fine babe." I murmured. As my lips met her skin the last remnants of tension left her and I was pulled into a hug.

"Thanks Addy, you're the best."

"Yes, yes I am," I giggled as I was squeezed tight. I didn't miss the deep breath she took as she nuzzled into my shoulder, seemed she still occasionally needed the calming scent she claimed I had. Pulling away from her I sat back and she raised herself to lean against the head of the bed.

"What's up with you?" I jerked at the question, not expecting her to come back to that after the intensity of the last few minutes.

"I'm fine," I lied, hoping to deflect further analysis.

"Is Kate OK?" The smile that automatically appeared on my face every time her name was mentioned answered that question. "So what is it then honey?" I dragged my eyes up to meet hers and saw only concern there. I shuffled so I could rest back on my hands and also give myself a little distance.

"Kate and I are great, we just miss you. I miss you." I uttered my confession with a sigh but avoided eye contact because I felt so guilty about feeling this way. I wasn't jealous, I was very happy that Spencer had found Ashley, I loved Ashley, she was just what my friend needed. What I was feeling was entirely selfish and it was only now after the reality of the situation had sunk in that I was left this way.

"Oh," Spencer finally spoke and I forced myself to look at her.

"Spence, I'm sorry. It's not your fault. I'm just not handling it very well. Kate and I have talked a little about it, she misses you a lot but it's different as she's never been at school with you, I was kinda used to having you all to myself, except Amy." I paused before continuing, "we both know I never handled that well." I bit my lip at my admission. She nodded and nudged me with the side of her foot tacitly acknowledging my past issues.

"But you got over that?" I nodded.

"I did but I was so focused on making sure you and Ashley were OK."

"I know you were babe, you did everything you could and I'm so grateful to you for that. To be honest I know it had the others concerned, they weren't sure if you were going to fight it." Oh, that made me feel like a complete shit and I picked at the bed cover while I dwelled on what a bitch I could be. "Hey," this time it was a little kick to get my attention. "They don't understand exactly what it is between us," she paused and held my gaze with a deep intensity but I dropped my eyes after a second," Maggie and Amy have some idea but the rest of them have no comprehension of how strong a bond we all have. Especially ours," she finished quietly and the depth of her tone made me look up, she was giving me such a loving stare I couldn't help the blush form on my cheeks.

"Spence," I whined, she knew exactly what she was doing to me.

"I get it Addy I do. I also get that Amy and Maggie have new things going on for them and I'm really happy about that. I know Amy was having trouble too but then her friendship with Ash compensated a bit." I nodded having come to the same conclusion myself. "But you, you've been left with nothing," I opened my mouth to interrupt but she held her hand up to stop the words that were forming. "Yes, I know you have Kate," I smiled as she read my mind. "But what we had was pretty much an additional relationship, right?" I nodded my agreement. She'd phrased that very well, it encompassed the strength and breadth of our feelings for one another. "And usually when a couple breaks up at least one of them wants it?" I nodded again. "I've got Ash to keep me busy," a suggestive quirk of her eyebrow made me chuckle, "but you've just lost and gained nothing." I nodded.

"Yeah," I released a sigh, just getting it out in the open made me feel better. "Don't get me wrong Spence, I love Ash and would never want to come between you, I'm just finding it hard. I just want you to myself sometimes ya know?" I hated to say to say it, but it was best to be completely honest.

"I know, Ash gives me so much but this is just nice, you and me." We linked eyes again I allowed those blue pools to swallow me but caught myself before I fell too deep, I wasn't even going to go there, I had no idea how strong my control was and didn't want to have to test it. That would ruin everything. "Um," I needed to break the moment. "Um, even though it was difficult for me to talk to her about you I was flattered she came to me ya know?"

"Yeah babe, I know, me too. It's going to help a lot. Thank you, I know it must have been hard." I just nodded.

"So are we good?" I sought more reassurance from my friend,

"Of course we are, we've never been anything else babe," she smiled and I couldn't hold back my own. "Thanks for being so honest about it." I shrugged.

"It's you." It was her turn to blush and she shuffled forward to wrap me in a hug.

"I miss you too," she whispered and we just held each other, my arms tightening at her words.

"It'll be OK, right?" My voice broke against my will.

"Yeah babe, it'll be OK," she reassured me, burying her face in my neck again and we just held each other for a few minutes.

"Sorry, this is hard for me," I confessed as I pulled away from her.

"I get it, I could spend all day snuggled up with you babe." Another silent look was exchanged.

"So what happened this afternoon?" I settled back again as I re-started the conversation.

"I met Ashley's ex."

xxx

"Really? You OK with that?" I shrugged.

"Yeah, she was really nice, besides she just got married so not exactly after Ash."

"OK," Addy accepted my explanation with a smile.

"Yeah, she's like twenty three or something." I explained as I settled back against my pillows, I threw one at Addy so she could get more comfortable, she still looked a little unsettled and it concerned me.

I knew how she felt, sometimes I'd instinctively reach to touch her at lunch, just for reassurance or her calming influence, before realising that wasn't how it worked any more, I had Ashley as a substitute but I'd no idea it was affecting Addy so much. Even after our conversation just now I could tell she wasn't herself. The thing was, this was Addison we were talking about which meant she had very little outlet for her personal issues, she was close with Kyla and Madison but in reality it was only Kate and I she shared her innermost thoughts with. She'd been bought up her whole life being forced to keep her emotions in check and breaking that conditioning was almost impossible for her, even now.

"That's quite a lot older than Ash," she continued the conversation, picking at the bed cover.

"Yeah, they didn't date long but Maggie said she was the only one Ash dated properly, except her."

"Really?" Addison was quite intrigued now and sat forward, wrapping her arm around her knees.

"Yeah, back before her dad died," I added with a sigh. "She wants to talk about him tomorrow," I finished softly.

Xxx

"Oh," she had me distracted from my issues and now I was focused on the conversation.

"Yeah, she went to pick up a car from her mother's house today," Spencer informed me with yet another sigh, "I have a feeling it could get intense," she paused, "I mean I'm really glad she wants to talk about it, least I know who he is now, put's a lot more perspective on what makes Ash, Ash, ya know?" I nodded, seeing how it would explain a lot to Spencer. "She had this whole other life I know nothing about." I nodded again. "Today she was talking about going to all these award shows, the freakin' Oscars Addy!" Spencer threw herself back in frustration. "How am I supposed to compete with that!"

"Hang on a minute, shut the fuck up Spence!" I barked when she just kept yapping, she was finally silent so I continued. "Spence! Are you a total moron?" She looked at me with her mouth open. "Has Ashley ever said she misses that life, that you're not enough as you are?"

"No..."

"Is she happy?"

"Yes, she said today that she's never been happier," she replied sheepishly.

"See, moron! She loves you, she's happy the way things are. This is her new life and trust me when I say that the past is often best left in the past." The blonde took a few moments to absorb my words.

"What happened to you that was so bad Addy?" She'd sensed the tension behind my words, she'd never asked me directly before and I'd not volunteered the information but I felt I owed her an explanation so I was honest with her.

"I hated my parents and used to do everything I could to piss them off. I acted out, got arrested, did drugs." I shrugged, "as I got older I fucked at least one different girl every night, sometimes more, I used them, de-graded them because I could. You wouldn't have liked me Spence," I hung my head in shame, I couldn't meet her eyes. "From what I've heard I would have given Ashley a run for her money."

"So what changed sweetie?" She reached out and took my hand, I let her hold it and welcomed the soothing movement of her thumb over my palm. " I know you're not that girl any more."

"I stopped hating them, at some point I realised they are not even worth that. They use me, pull me out once a year for the re-election campaign so I use them." I paused, "then I met Kate and everything got so much better, showed me life was worth fighting for. I'm not eighteen for another six months Spence, then I'm out of there for good. They can't threaten me with boarding school or taking my car away," I knew I sounded bitter, "I'm going to move in with Kate and Meg, I haven't slept at my parents house since before summer and they haven't even noticed. Well if they have they don't care enough to mention it." Spencer gasped at that fact, I just snorted my disgust at their complete lack of care for me.

"What about college?" Spencer sounded worried about my future

"We'll go to college together, I have a trust fund that kicks in for college that my grandmother left me. They can't fucking touch it and it kills them." I got a nod as she processed the information, "we want to open our own shop when we graduate. Do custom's and shit." There was silence after I finished, this was stuff I only ever talked about with Kate but Spencer meant so much to me, she'd asked and I'd told.

"Oh sweetie," Spencer reached out and hugged me, pulling me into her body.

xxx

I felt so bad for her right now and guilty that my home life was actually great so I just hugged her close and let her know how much I loved her.

"It's not that bad Spence, nothing like what I think Ashley went through, nothing compared to Kate." I stiffened at her last words and she sighed, "I know you're curious about Kate's background but I can't sweetie, it's not something she talks about, even with me." She paused, "I think Maggie is the only other person she's talked to and they were dating for quite a while." I sighed but she misinterpreted it, "it's not that she doesn't trust you Spence, it's just that our times together were special, fun, loving, not the time for serious talk, it would have tainted things." Her voice dropped away and I was left with an ominous feeling, things must have been really bad, I tried to shut the possible scenarios out of my mind, I managed but only after burying my face into Addy's hair and inhaling her wonderful scent.

"OK babe?" I nodded and she pulled back and by mutual, unspoken agreement we laid on our backs, side by side on the bed again.

"Yeah, thanks it means a lot that you shared that with me," she squeezed my hand, a typical Addy gesture of affection, "and I understand about Kate, I do, I guess I just feel bad that so many of my friends have had shitty lives and I've got two slightly crazy parents that love me and each other."

xxx

Spencer sighed again before continuing, "I know Ash wants to talk tomorrow but how am I supposed to help her when I can't relate?"

"Spence, the reason why we're all so crazy about you is that you know how we think, you know what to say and do to make us feel good, and not just sexually," I added the comment for clarification, she sniggered. "Child!" I whacked her across the stomach with the back of my hand until she shut up. "You love us and I think you have a natural talent for it, you listen and always know how to help," I shrugged, "you'll know what to do tomorrow, just let her talk. Asking you is the biggest step, she might need a little help expressing her feelings but I trust you to get it right."

"Yeah but I bet she's talked to professionals about it all, right?" I snorted at her naivete.

"Spence, you tell them what they want to hear, not what's really bothering you, least I did." She turned her head so she was looking at the side of my face, I didn't meet her eyes.

"Really?" I nodded.

"Yeah, I wasn't gonna let some shrink know about me, that shit's personal." I turned and winked at her and we both giggled, I felt her breath on my face and quickly turned back to look at the ceiling, having her lips that close to mine was extremely disconcerting.

"Thanks, I feel a little better about it all now," she sighed and I felt her relax.

"Good, you shouldn't worry, you and Ash are made for each other."

"I know, I'm so fucking lucky." Spencer smiled and let out another soft sigh. "Addy," she paused and I just waited for her to continue, "do you think Ash would be OK now if anything happened between us?" I jumped at the question, misinterpreting her meaning, "like we had a fight or something?" Of course she was referring to Ashley, what had I been thinking? I paused to clear my head before answering.

"What do you mean?" I needed clarification.

"I mean what happens if something goes wrong or comes between us?" Her voice was almost a whisper and struck immediate concern within me.

"Spence? What's wrong? Why are you even asking me this." She didn't respond, just stared at the ceiling.

"Just answer the question Addy." Her tone was harder than usual and I felt unease stir deep down inside but pushed it back and focused on the question.

"You're in love with each other, anything serious is going to hurt you both. I have no idea how Ashley would react, I don't think she'd go back to the drugs but it would be very, very hard for her to deal with. Amy would help, Maggie too." I shrugged, having given her my honest opinion, after another moments silence I pushed for more information. "Spence, what's wrong?" I had a feeling this was not a random question.

"Nothing, just something Maggie said to me earlier." I frowned at the indirect answer.

"Are you sure nothing is wrong?" I propped myself up onto my elbow so I was looking down at her again. "I know you Spencer, maybe better than anyone, what the hell are you talking about?" I dropped my voice almost to a growl, adding force to my words, hoping to force an honest response from her.

"Maggie just got me thinking about what would happen to me, to Ash, if we ever broke up. She said that now she knew how it felt, the connection," she explained and I nodded, "how could she ever live without it?" Wow, so it was serious between Maggie and May but it was news to me that it was so deep, I think I'd dismissed it as yet another of Maggie's conquests.

"OK, but you and Ash are good? Right?" She nodded and turned to look up at me.

"We're good," a smile reassured me, "I just don't know what would happen if we weren't," the smile vanished and a pained look crossed her face.

"You can tell me anything, right?" The blonde locked her eyes on mine but didn't answer me right away.

"I know," she paused and I thought I'd cracked it, "but it's not mine to tell," her eyes pleaded with me, "drop it, please?" After a second, I relented and she relaxed. I knew she must have a very good reason for keeping quiet.

"Sorry," I flopped down onto my back, "I just know that sometimes I need a push to get things out but I respect what you're saying, just let me know if you ever need to talk, OK?"

"Thanks babe, I wish I could." Now I was really worried, I turned on my side so I could look at her. "Sometimes I wish I could." She repeated and turned to me with such desperation, clinging to me and hiding away against my body. I just held her close, for once in my life not sure how to handle the blonde curled up in my arms. What was going on? I knew I wasn't the only one to confide in my friend, she held secrets for many of us, well if not secrets, little known facts. Like I'd explained to her earlier, there was something about Spencer that made even the most withdrawn characters seek her confidence. What was she holding for one of us that was such a heavy weight?

"Spence, you're kinda worrying me babe," I mumbled into her hair as I held her, she was relaxing slowly as I gently stroked her back.

"Ugh, I'm sorry Addy." A sigh was released and she rolled onto her back, the moment passed. "It's just been a busy day and I have a lot on my mind. My insecurities getting the better of me I guess." She turned to look at me and I was relieved to see those hypnotic eyes holding their customary warmth.

"OK," I relented, just glad to see her behaving relatively normally, I'd wait and see if she came to talk to me another time, hopefully the problem would resolve itself and she wouldn't need to. "But I'm here, OK?" she nodded.

Xxx

"Wanna see what Ash bought me?" I changed the subject and got a curious nod from Addison, things had been getting intense and I didn't want the mood carrying over to my date tonight. "OK," I rolled off the bed and went to my desk where I'd laid the boxes containing my new clothes. I took them over to the bed and set them down, Addy sat up and scooted against the head of the bed and tucked her hair behind her ear.

"So what you got then? I know that store, they have some nice stuff."

"Yeah, that's Mac's store,"

"Wow, she's done well for herself." I nodded.

"Yeah, I don't know if she owns it though. I'll ask Ash a bit more about her later, Maggie doesn't think she'll mind talking about it. They broke up on good terms." I unfolded the dress and held it up for Addy to see.

"Wow, it's beautiful," she crawled across the bed and touched the silky material, gently running her fingers over it.

"Yeah, it fits well too, wanna see?" I offered.

Xxx

"Sure," I let go of the material and she laid the dress on the bed then reached down to pull her top over her head, I hesitated a second before turning away. "Spence, you shouldn't be doing this." I reprimanded my friend.

"What?" Her voice was muffled as she removed her top, I kept my back to her and head bowed so I didn't accidentally catch a glimpse of her in the mirror.

"We can't do this any more," I explained.

"Do what?"

"My god are you really that dumb? I mean you are blonde but I thought you'd grown at least one more brain cell this year." I teased.

"Addy, what the hell are you talking about?" I finally turned to face her, knowing she was fully dressed.

"Are you wearing any underwear?" I ran my eyes over her body, taking in the dress. She shook her head.

"I had a shower."

"I didn't think so." I sighed. "You look amazing by the way," I complimented her as my eyes ran up and down her body. "But Spence, you can't do that any more."

xxx

She sighed and ran her fingers through her hair, it had gotten a little tousled from lying on the bed.

"I'm sorry," I finally got what she was talking about. "Sorry." I sat down on the bed next to her.

"Things are different huh?" I asked and took her hand as I recognised another barrier to our past relationship.

"Yes Spence they are," Addison took a deep breath, "you have to treat me like Austin, or Ky and Mads sweetie," I nodded. "No getting naked with me or Katie in the room," she sighed. "Much as we'd like to see the goods it's just not right now you're with Ash." This time I got a grin as she attempted to lighten the mood.

"Yeah, sorry. I really wasn't thinking. I'm just so comfortable around you ya know." I was feeling pretty bad now I realised how it would look to Ash and the others. "I'd better not show you the lingerie she bought me then?" I joked and nudged Addy with my elbow, she flopped back onto the bed.

"Nah, you can show me, just not the live model version. 'K?"

xxx

"Ok babe, Maggie helped me pick it out," the blonde explained as she held up the clothing in question.

"I can see why," I replied dryly as I tried not to pass out as I gave the barely there silkiness a once over before averting my eyes and trying to shut all kinds if hot but very, very wrong images out of my mind.

"That good huh?" She was laughing at my obvious discomfort as I crossed my legs and shifted awkwardly on the bed.

"Uh, huh," it was all I trusted myself to say. "Ash is getting very lucky tonight," I threw her a wink and earned a smirk in return.

"I have a feeling it's going to be an interesting evening," Spencer replied. "I'm kinda looking forward to it now we've talked," she finished shyly.

"Good," I nodded, "I've seen how you are with Ash, I think you're gonna get a lot out of it." I gave her my honest opinion.

"Yeah?"

"Yes Spence, if even half of the things I've heard about Ash are true she's gonna rock your world and you're going to love every second. Just relax and enjoy the ride." I advised and got a nod and warm smile in return.

"You really are the best you know?"

"Best you've ever had Spence," I stood up and stretched, my comment made her laugh.

"That would be telling babe," she winked at me but I was only messing, I knew at one point it would have been the absolute truth but not now Ash was on the scene.

"I'm gonna head back to Kate if you're OK?" I needed a bit of space after the dose of concentrated Spencer.

"Yeah, I need to finish getting ready and that's gonna involve nakedness so you'd better get going huh?"

"Bitch, no need to rub it in," I lashed out and punched her on the arm and we wrestled and play fought all the way downstairs until we were by the front door. "I really need to go." I said as I realised that getting physical with Spencer hadn't been one of my best ideas.

"Yeah, sorry babe," the blonde winked as she practically shoved me out the door. "Want me to call Kate and warn her I got you all hot and bothered?"

"Nah, I think it's best I show her myself huh?" I returned the wink but my mind was elsewhere as I thought of all the ways I could show Kate how much I loved her, sure I was more than a little aroused from messing with Spencer but I felt we'd worked out all the kinks pretty well. I think I'd stop off for some flowers on the way home, sure she acted tough but a romantic gesture here and there never went unappreciated.

"Bye babe," Spencer waved as I revved Phoenix's engine.

"Bye Spence, call me if ya need anything, OK?"

"I will, love ya."

"Love ya Spence, have a good night," I called as I began the drive home.

xxx

I heard Ash pull up and I opened the door.

"Ready to go Spence?" Ash called to me but I was lost in a total haze of lust. "Spence?" This time I managed to get it together.

"Hi," I flashed a smile at my gorgeous girlfriend as she climbed out of her car. The reason for my haze? Well the dress she had picked out was a red strapless number that only reached mid thigh, it didn't leave much to the imagination and I wasn't sure it was safe to let her out like that, I'd either jump her in public or start a fight if someone hit on her. Oh my god! She turned slightly as she shut the car door and I gasped as I caught a glimpse of the extremely low cut back and slit up the left hand side of the skirt.

"Hey," I left orbit as Ash came up to me and pecked me on the cheek. "Everything OK?" She teased gently, knowing exactly what effect she was having on me.

"Yeah, I'm good," I regained some cool as I dipped in for a kiss, I was still very slightly taller than her even in the ridiculous heels we were both wearing, well I felt ridiculous in mine but Ashley moved with the same grace she always exhibited, very sexy.

"Shall we?" She gently tugged my hand and led me towards her car, she opened the door and waited until I was inside before heading round to the drivers side and climbing in. I gulped as her dress slid unbelievably high on her thigh as she sat down. All I got was a wink as she buckled up and pulled onto the road, I regained a little composure and placed my hand on the exposed skin, she jumped and shot me a quick glance before returning her eyes to the road. Ashley was a great driver, she handled the car with ease despite the demon revving under the hood, I felt extremely safe as she deftly manoeuvred through the heavy traffic of the city towards the shore.

"You look amazing," she complimented me along with another quick glance as she effortlessly shifted gears.

"Thanks babe, I think you killed me back there you look so hot." I cleared my throat in an effort to stay focused and not get lost in the cleavage I saw every time I turned towards her.

"Yeah?" I saw a shy smile appear and squeezed the warm skin beneath my hand.

"Yeah, I'm not responsible for my actions if anyone hits on you, OK?" I growled the last words and she gasped and there was a notable increase in her breathing.

"Uh, huh," Ash grunted in response. "We should be fine, it's a nice place," she continued to reassure me.

"Yeah well, have you seen you today?" I grumbled and looked out the window to distract myself from the goddess driving the car.

Xxx

"Spence have you see you?" I flashed another quick glance at the girl sat next to me, she looked stunning and I was having the same feelings. I was also trying very hard not to get distracted and keep my eyes on the road. She just snorted at my comment and I could see a raised eyebrow as she dismissed it. "Seriously Spence, I've never seen you in heels before and your legs look amazing."

"Yeah?" She didn't sound convinced.

"Yes babe, you look beautiful." I reassured her as we neared the restaurant. "Oh shit!" I exclaimed as I noticed the crowd of press at the entrance to the restaurant, held back by the valets and security team. Like I'd said it's pretty exclusive and there is a good chance of spotting at least a B list celebrity every night, I'd forgotten the vultures hung out here. I was quickly regretting my choice of car as I could already see the heads turning as we neared the door. "Spence, just ignore them and anything they say OK?" I was starting to panic a little. "They just try and get a rise out of you so they can claim an exclusive." She nodded but looked apprehensive as she eyed the seething mass, thankfully she was on the restaurant side and wouldn't get too exposed, maybe they wouldn't even bother? "We can go somewhere else if you want?" I turned and asked gently but she shook her head.

"Is it always like this?" I shook my head.

"Not usually, I chose the wrong place for a quiet night, sorry baby," I apologised with a sigh, this wasn't going as planned. "Listen, if they're interested it won't take long before they know who you are, are you OK with that?" She nodded and she pecked me on the cheek.

"Ash it's OK, I never realised it could be like this but I'm not afraid to be seen with you," that made me smile and she returned my grin.

"Ready?" I nodded and popped the car door open and was immediately bombarded by camera flashes. It only took a few seconds before I was recognised and they began calling out to me but I ignored them and kept my head low so I could get to Spencer. I opened her door and helped her out.

"Ashley are you still using? Who's your date Ashley? How does it feel to be out of rehab? Is it true you're dating Lindsay Lohan?" I sniggered at that one then a sudden burst of confidence hit me.

"You OK for a second?" I checked with Spencer, she nodded and squeezed my hand and we turned as one to face the cameras, there was a sudden silence as they all shut up, totally shocked I hadn't told them all to fuck off or punched one as I had been known to do in the past. "OK guys, listen up!" I yelled at the mass. "No, I'm clean and have been for 6 months now. Being out of re-hab is great. No, I'm not dating, Lindsay, she wishes." I threw in a wink and got a few laughs in return. "And this is my girlfriend Spencer, she's not famous so nothing to hide there but I am totally in love with her and as we're here on a date can you give us a little space to get inside please?" There was a silence and they shuffled back from the barriers giving us a little bit more space to get inside. "Thanks guys," I pulled Spencer's hand and we paused for a few seconds on the top step so they could all get a picture then finally made it into the restaurant.

xxx

Wow, we'd finally made it inside and I was a little shell shocked.

"That was crazy Ash," I exclaimed as I caught my breath.

"Yeah, I'm sorry," she replied quietly and looked at me with a hang-dog expression.

"Baby, it's not your fault," I nudged her shoulder and called her attention to the Maitre d' who was waiting for our attention.

"Hi, I have a reservation for Davies," Ashley confidently addressed the young woman, her eyebrows raised as she heard the name and gave us both the once over, I didn't miss the way her eyes lingered on Ashley and I narrowed my eyes at her back as she led us through the busy restaurant. It was light and airy being constructed mostly of wood and glass with scrubbed wooden floors, it still held a lot of it's understated beach-side charm despite the distinctly upmarket clientèle, I was now glad Ash had bought me this dress as it didn't look out of place amongst the other glamorous guests. We were shown to a quiet table in the back corner of the restaurant with a window view, it was cosy and out of sight of most of the other diners, except a few couples sat at similar tables also beside the long window.

"Best seats in the house huh?" Ashley winked at me and I smiled as she held my chair out for me.

"Thanks babe," I sat down and waited for her to get seated then took the menu handed to me by the Maitre d'.

"May I get you something to drink?" She asked politely, I shot a look at Ash who shrugged.

"Get whatever you want Spence, do you want some wine with the meal?" I considered her request for a second then declined with a shake of my head.

"Just water thanks," I addressed the server directly.

"Same for me please," Ashley added to the order and we were left in peace. "Um, yeah sorry about all that outside," Ash bit her lip and waved her hand in the general direction of the doorway. "I thought it would be easier to answer the questions and not see lies in the press tomorrow." I nodded my agreement.

"It's OK, it's not put me off dating you," I giggled, "but seriously LiLo?" I rolled my eyes at the thought but she just stared out the window looking sheepish. "Ash? You didn't?" She turned towards me and bit her lip, "you so did!" I was amazed rather than jealous.

"Nooooo, I have standards! Bitch wouldn't stop calling me for weeks but I wasn't interested." She smirked and I allowed her the satisfaction before continuing.

"OK, so any other hot celebrities I should know about?" I was only half joking, knowing Ashley would have been in hot demand.

"Um, yeah, but are you sure you want to talk about this now, we are on a date?" She wouldn't meet my eyes.

"Ash," I caught her attention, "do I look pissed or threatened?" She shook her head, "I'm just curious, you don't have to tell me if you don't want to, I just thought it would probably come out sooner or later and I'd rather hear your side of things." I finished quietly.

"You could google me?" She suggested with a smirk.

"Nah, Maddy already did and all she said was worth seeing was you grinding on some girl in a club." Her head shot round in surprise and she looked kinda scared. "Ash, it was before you even met me," I reminded her, "if it had been last week then we'd have a problem but I trust you, I'm not some insecure crazy girl, I just want to know who my hot girlfriend scored with." That made her smile and I felt her brush my leg under the table.

xxx

"Ok," I thought for a second trying to recall the more notable ones. "Umm, Amber Heard, we used to get together quite a bit." Spencer's eyes almost popped out of her head, "she looks a lot like Addy dont'cha think, when she's brunette?" Spencer nodded mutely before clearing her throat.

"Um yeah, they are pretty alike, but way Addy's hotter." I nodded my agreement, surprised with the ease she accepted the information.

"So who else?" She probed."Oh! Oh my god."

"Ash, what's up?" Spencer was curious, understandable, as an enormous light bulb had just gone off in my head, how the hell had I forgotten that? Before I could enlighten my curious girlfriend the waitress came to take our orders, I ordered the lobster and proceeded to glare at the waitress as she simpered over Spencer. "What was that for?" She asked when we were alone again.

"She was totally perving on you Spence," I groused.

"Ash, the Maitre d' was all over you when we came in, she was totally eye fucking you," she rolled her eyes at the woman in question, I turned and caught her looking right at me. Smirking I stood up and leant over the table and pulled Spencer into a searing hot kiss, in seconds she was kissing me back and had her fingers in my hair, holding me to her. After a few moments she pulled back and glared at the offending woman.

"Mine," she stood straight and placed a hand on her hips as she growled possessively, loud enough to be heard, bad-ass Spencer was out to play. The woman snapped her eyes away and didn't look back at us for the rest of the meal.

"Damn girl you're hot," I crossed my legs, feeling a little damp you know where.

"Well, it's rude to stare," she grinned cockily and sat back in her chair.

"I love that you can take care of yourself, and me." This time the smile was shy.

"You're pretty capable yourself Ashley Davies, now what were you going to tell me before that bitch interrupted? Hmm?"

What?

xxx

"Oh shit! Sorry babe, yeah well how's this for a hook up..." She left me hanging, getting lost in her own little world.

"Aaash!" I whined at her, it must be good the way she was spacing, that was my deal.

"Well, I was at last year's MTV movie awards and I got talking to Emma what's her face from Harry Potter in the bathroom..."

"What? You did Emma Watson in the bathroom?" I screeched, a little too high pitched to ever be considered cool.

"Shhh, keep your voice down," Ash warned me and I quickly shut the fuck up.

"No, I didn't, now listen to the rest of the story, OK?" I nodded and kept my mouth shut.

"So anyway, we were talking and she was asking if it was true about all the girls she'd heard about and I was like yeah, it's mostly true, then she invited me to one of the after parties. Some big hotel somewhere, really high security. Anyway we get there and thank god I thought it a good idea to stay relatively sober that night."

"Because?" I was undeniably curious.

"Promise you won't get upset if I tell you?"

"I promise, you're killing me here babe, just tell me what happened." I begged.

"Ok, so Emma's really nice, funny, pretty crude but a lot of fun, not to mention hot and all night she's asking me about all the girls there and if I think they are hot or not and who I'd fuck, we're having a lot of fun just hanging and having a few beers." She paused and had a quick drink of her water. "People keep coming up and saying hi but she sticks with me, which is cool," I rolled my eyes at her cocky smirk. "We're talking about how it's kinda rough for people like her, you can't be yourself except behind closed doors and she respects me for not giving a fuck. I'm getting the vibe that there's more than a mild curiosity going on, especially when we've had a few more drinks and now when we spot a girl I like and she's asking me how I'd like to fuck them. That girl has a dirty mouth." I coughed into my glass of water, when I'd recovered she continued.

"So what happened next?" Our food arrived and she expertly cracked her lobster and I picked at the crab I'd ordered.

"Ok, so when she asks me about the next girl she's all up against me so I think what the fuck and pull her across my lap and kiss her." I spit my crab back onto the plate then quickly looked around to see if anyone had been watching, cool Carlin, cool. Ash smirked at me, "sure you can cope if I carry on?" I nodded rapidly.

Xxx

"Hell yeah," she was really into the story, it's a good story.

"Ok, so she's a great kisser, no connection like we have though," I took a second to smile at my blonde and she winked back at me, damn I was so in love. "So we're making out in this dark little corner, nobody can see what's going on and it's getting hot and heavy, her hands are everywhere, there's no way this is the first time she's made out with a girl." Spencer nods, totally absorbed by the story. See I love this about her, I can talk about getting it on with a hot girl and because it's all in the past she's totally cool with it. "Do you need some help with that?" I gestured to her crab, it was putting up a good fight.

"Yeah, thanks baby," I got the sweetest smile and I felt myself blushing as I cracked a couple of claws to keep her going while I finished the story.

"What happened next?"

"Well, she's that into it I ask if she wants to take it somewhere a bit more private, she agrees and she gives me the key to her room" I paused and cracked a few more claws open for Spencer, I got a foot rubbed up against the side of my calf and a grateful smile as thanks. "She goes first and I meet her there, it's easier for girls to sneak around than if someone were to see a guy sneak into her room right?" Spencer nodded, there were many times I was thankful not to be a guy. "I get there and we carry on where we left off, on the couch then into the bedroom. We're just about to take it up a notch, well I am," I smirked at Spencer's wide eyed expression. "Then the door opens and I hear this chick asking why she didn't wait for her. I have no idea who it is, I'm kinda underneath so can't see and it's kinda dark too," Spencer nodded and I continued.

"Anyway, Emma just tells her she got tired of waiting and if she wants in to get on with it, otherwise go, she sounds kinda pissed. The girl apologises and says it took her ages to dump the beard, his boyfriend was late or something. Anyway Emma gets up and follows the girl into the other room, I'm too horny to just leave so I go through to find out what's going on." I paused to help her with the rest of the crab and fill up her water glass. "Anyway, Emma's there making out with the chick from that shitty Twilight film." Spencer gaped. "Yeah turns out like they're dating, I mean we all know Kristen's gay right?" Spencer nodded her agreement. "So, once Emma's given me the OK, it's on. Those girls are fucking crazy in bed. Dirty bitches." I finished with a grin.

xxxx

Ash finished her story as I finally bested my crab, it had been delicious but a bit tricky to eat, I didn't have the advantage of being Cali born. There's not a lot of ocean in Ohio.

"Interesting story babe," I smirked at the little happy she had going on at the memory. "The tabloids would pay a lot for that information." Ash shrugged.

"Probably, I feel sorry for them though. Everybody assumes Kristin is with that loser Pattison where really he's taking it from Justin Timberlake." I covered my mouth to repress the laugh that comment caused.

"Yeah, maybe Maggie should go into business hosting her parties for more celebrity clientèle?" I suggested.

"Nah, markets already taken, you just have to know the right people, it's been going on since the beginning of Hollywood."

"Yeah?" I was intrigued, seems there was a whole other world I was unaware of.

"Yeah, I was talking to the girls at breakfast and they asked me who else I knew of that was in the closet and I gave them a few names, they should be able to have a bit more fun. Oh and even though I hate those stupid films, Kristin is actually really nice and says if it wasn't so good for her career she wouldn't have done them as she hates the books. Actually, she said if she had her way she'd have totally hooked up with that chick who plays Alice, actually I think there was actually something going on between them before she got together with Em. Now that would be a three way I'd pay to see."

xxx

"I'd have to agree with you there, why don't you give them a call sometime? See if they fancy getting together?" I joked.

"Maybe, you could come with me to the awards this year and meet them yourself, they've both got big films out again this year so are bound to be nominated."

"For real?" I was kinda doubtful they would let someone like me go.

"Well, I wouldn't want to take anyone else as my plus one and my dad's record company always gives me tickets, they seem to think even bad publicity keeps the sales up." Ash shrugged, sadness clouding her face for a second. "I mean I don't want to make a habit it of stuff like that, I prefer the quiet life but once a year would be a nice change don't you think?" She paused and looked out the window. "If you don't mind everyone knowing we're together?" She finished with a sigh before turning back for my reaction.

"Ash, I love you you dope, why would I mind who knows we're together? I don't want to hide you from anyone, why would you think that baby?" She looked down and poked at the empty shells on her plate.

"I'm not exactly the kinda of girl you'd bring home to your parents, I mean I've not even met them as your girlfriend yet." Another sigh, "I know you keep asking me I'm just scared," she explained. "Your mom was pretty intimidating at Maggie's house and I don't have the best history with your dad," she mumbled and I reached out for her hand.

"Babe, I don't care if you don't meet them until the day we get married but you have nothing to worry about, they see how happy I am and you're not making me skip school or get bad grades so why would they have a problem with you?" She just shrugged, "we can talk about it more tomorrow if you want?" Another shrug but she didn't let go of my hand.

"Sorry, this is supposed to be a date and all we've talked about is other women and my not so rosy past." She ended the sentence with yet another sigh.

"Hey, I asked didn't I?" A nod, "and I think it's kinda hot that you got it on with them, I mean that's a total lesbian fantasy, right?" This time I got a smirk, almost back to the cocky girl I knew and loved. "And if we do meet up with them I get to gloat that I have you all to myself, I mean no one else can claim they have Ashley Davies totally whipped can they?" Her mouth dropped open and for a second it looked like she was going to argue then just screwed up her face so her nose crinkled adorably and shook her head.

"I'm not going to argue with that, but only because I get to say that Spencer Carlin is my total bitch." It was my turn to consider my answer.

"It's true, I can't argue, yours and yours only Ashley Davies," I let my voice drop into a husky tone and the reaction from the girl across the table was noticeable.

"Would you like any desserts ladies?" The perving waitress was back with the shittiest timing ever.

"Spence?" Ashley enquired politely but I could tell she was barely holding herself back. "No, I think we'll get that at home." She favoured the waitress with a sexy smirk, "much more interesting things on the menu there," the woman blushed and shot a look at me but Ash just politely asked for the check and she hurried off. "Did you enjoy yourself?" Ash enquired softly as we waited for the bill.

"I've had a great time but I kinda want you all to myself now," I confessed.

"So, what do you want to do for the rest of the night?" Ashley asked as we waited for the valet to bring her car around. There were no press left as Ash had told me they would be heading towards the clubs at this time of night.

"Well how about we go home and I spend the night ravishing my girl?" I suggested with a wink. She made a show of considering my offer before responding.

"Do we have to go home? How about a walk on the beach?" She suggested.

"Sounds great babe," the car finally arrived and she held the door for me as I climbed in, she really was being such a sweetheart tonight. When she joined me in the car she started it up and took a route I was unfamiliar with. We ended up pulling into a dirt road that ended in a set of gates, Ash reached out of her window and punched a code into the security pad and drove through. "Where are we?" I asked as curiosity got the better of me.

"Somewhere special," was the only reply I got as we drove on in total darkness. She must know where we were going, I thought, firstly to have the code for the gate and second to handle the car so effortlessly along the bumpy track. Eventually we pulled up on a paved surface by the side of a house.

"We're here, come on," we climbed out of the car and she hit the auto lock then took my hand and led me further into the darkness, I heard some keys jangle and the sound of a door opening, "I need to get the light fixed," she muttered to herself, then pulled me behind her. I blinked when a light went on and it took a second for my eyes to adjust to the brightness, when I could focus I gasped.

We were in an open plan room, a tasteful combination between modern and beach comber style with an open fireplace against one wall and many couches and chairs spread around. One wall was made entirely of glass and I could see a deck and porch then sand, I assumed it led onto the beach but it was pitch black past the area covered by the porch light.

xxx

"Wow Ash!" This is amazing, Spencer gasped and I got a happy that she liked it so much. "Who's is it?" She looked around as if expecting the owners to pop out from behind a couch.

"It's mine," her mouth dropped open and she stared at me. "As in properly on hundred percent legally mine. My dad left me it in his will, in case I needed a place to live, he knew things were never great with my mom, I stayed with him as much as I could, even if he was away on tour or something I crashed at his with Norah and Toby." I had an episode of verbal diarrhoea as I tried to explain.

"Who are Norah and Toby?" A valid question.

xxx

"Oh! You'll meet them tomorrow, they worked for my dad and now my mom but Norah bakes the best chocolate chip cookies ever and she promised to make us some." She shed some light on the people in question. The way in which she spoke about these people was loving and it made me happy. Ashley never talked about her past and now that she was it was nice to hear she had some happy connections to her life before she met me.

"So this is all yours?" I looked around the space and laughed when she grabbed my hand.

"Yeah, isn't it cool. It's a bit out of the way so I'm afraid I didn't get time to set it up today what with shopping and everything but I came with Amy a few days ago so there is some stuff in the freezer and some soda and things in the fridge." She continued enthusiastically as she pulled me along, "this is obviously the kitchen," the open plan extended to the kitchen and is was separated from the main living area with a large breakfast bar. "Back here are four bedrooms and two more up in the roof," she pointed briefly at a staircase off to one side. "This is my room." She threw the door open and hit the light, it was on the corner of the house and had glass walls on two sides and a huge bed neatly made up.

Xxx

Spencer raised a brow at me and I managed to look suitably sheepish as she crossed her arms over her chest and tapped her foot.

"How many of your little sluts did you bring here, huh?"

"Speeence," I whined, "I bought a new bed, OK? Happy?" I saw a smile start to twitch at the corner of her mouth. "You're not really pissed are you?" A second later she gave in and smiled fully.

"Nah, I just enjoy teasing you, I mean I'd love to have had somewhere like this to fuck my girls in." She commented and it was my turn to feel put out.

"So I guess I should remind you who you belong to?" I growled and walked towards her until our bodies touched and she was backed up against the wall.

"And who's that Davies?" She asked, tangling her hands in my hair and kissing me deeply. The kiss took my breath away for a second but I soon retaliated by shifting my thigh between her leg and rocking up into her centre. A moan broke the kiss and she pulled back for air.

"That would be me," I smirked as I saw the arousal in her eyes. "Come on," I tugged at her hand, "time for that walk on the beach." I pulled two sweaters out of my closet and handed her one then she followed me back outside and down the path to the beach.

Next on Bringing it Home

OK. Now last night had been intense and wonderful and all kinds of hot but when Spencer spoke to me like that my game went out the window and I was just one hot puddle of girl spread out on the hood of my car. Nobody ever took control of me like that, you know I'd never let anyone else but the thought of Spencer letting loose and fucking the hell out of me was a little more than I could process right then.