Beginning a relationship is different for everyone.  Sometimes things go smoothly, with everything falling into place.  Other times you have to work to get what you want.  Some relationships start off way too quickly and fizzle out before they even really get started.  Other relationships are built over time, they are composed of trust and friendship given by both parties.  I don't think there is perfect a formula for starting a relationship that will guarantee success.  Truth be told you can never tell how a relationship will turn out from the beginning.  All you can do is hope for the best.  But the important things to remember are to go in open minded, be ready for all possibilities, and willing to work through the hard stuff.  If you can do this, then maybe you'll have a shot to get the relationship you want.  I know that no relationship is perfect, but one can always hope.  And that's what I have for me and Ash.  I'm not sure what kind of relationship we have, friends or friends with a possibility of more.  But I know what I want and I just have to work to get it.  I'm Spencer Carlin and let's get back to my hopeful life.

I swear someone had to have put a curse on school.  I don't know what it is, but time stands still in those class rooms.  No, I'm completely serious, class rooms have the ability to break the space-time continuum.  One minute in those torture chambers translates into an hour of outside time.  I think that's why teachers age so fast.  Seriously, almost all of my teachers look like they're pushing ninety.  At least that's one profession I can cross off my list.  Even though the day seemed like it took forever, it is finally over.  And now I'm in the car on the way to Ashley's house.

"You have a really nice car."  I say over the sound of the radio.  Ashley drives a black porsche convertible. 

"Thanks.  One of the perks of having a rockstar father.  It was my sixteenth birthday present.  The last thing he ever gave me before he died."  Ash says with her voice slightly cracking.  I can see tears glistening in her eyes, but she won't let them fall.  She wants to appear tough, but I know better.

"I'm sorry Ash."  I say in a soft voice, as I rub her hand that's placed on the gearshift.  It's all I could think to do to comfort her.

"Thanks Spence."  She smiles at me, turning her head to face the road.  We finish the ride in silence as it only takes about five more minutes to reach her house.

"Oh my God, Ash!  You live here?"  I say surprised.  We pull in front of this huge mansion.  It is the most beautiful house I've ever seen.