Food and Art

"Uhh, sure."

"Wanna go to the Corner Coffee House?"

"Sounds good to me."

The two head to Spencer's SUV as he wrestled with his conflicting emotions. As much as he wanted to support Ashley, he wasn't sure if going on a 'date' was a good idea. He was certain that Ashley wasn't ready for a relationship, not so soon after what she had been through. Part of him felt that Ashley might like him more than a friend, and he couldn't deny that he also liked Ashley.

At the table, Spencer wondered what subject to bring up. After a minute, he said "So, been doing any art?"

"Yeah, actually I have."

"That's good to hear. Do you have anything to show, or is it not ready yet?"

"Yeah, I have a piece."

"Cool."

"Maybe you'll have to show me once we've eaten."

"Sure."

A waitress then came to take their order. Spencer stumbled over his order, reminding himself that he was a fool for further engaging with Ashley. Still, she seemed to be happy, although he only knew all too well that happiness can be surface level.

After their meal, Spencer took Ashley back to her apartment. She led him to her small study, which had become a mess of art supplies. Sitting on an easel is a painting of mostly greys. When he got closer, he was able to make out a person in the middle. As much as Spencer wasn't an art expert, he knew that it wasn't a happy painting.

"Wow, that's uh... intense."

"You like it?"

"Yeah. Yeah, it's great."

"Glad you like it."

"So, that's it."

"Yeah."

"Well, that's good."

Spencer felt awkward in the silence that followed, which Ashley broke "You know today was really good Spence. Thank you."

"No problem."

Suddenly, Ashley locked lips with Spencer, which filled him with surprise, joy, and fear.

"How about you stay a little longer?" Ashley said.