The Midnight Train Crossing

Buffy was the first one up the next morning, which was rather unusual.
Ashley woke up later than usual.
Buffy was carefully being silent so that she wouldn't wake Rusty, who was still sound asleep.
Ashley hummed to herself as she skated into the kitchen.
"Good morning," Buffy said with a smile.
Ashley smiled back sleepily.
"You wouldn't happen to be looking forward to anything today would you?" Buffy teased.
Ashley giggled. "I can't wait."
"Eat breakfast then," Buffy said.
Ashley nodded and sat down at the table.
Buffy set a bowl down in front of her friend.
Ashley yawned deeply.
"Still tired?" Buffy asked.
"Yeah, a bit."
"I hope you wake up when he gets here," Buffy said innocently.
Ashley nodded. "Trust me, I will."
"That's good," Buffy said with a wink.
Ashley giggled and started to eat.
Buffy returned her attention to the kitchen.

Ashley sighed softly. "So, whatcha gonna do with Rusty today?"
"Hmm?"
"To get him out of the house?"
"Oh, yeah, right. Don't worry, we'll stay out of your way... tho' I will need to come back to make dinner."
Ashley nodded. "Okay."
"Where is he anyway?" Buffy asked.
"Still sleeping, I think..."
She nodded, "Alright. What time is Bobo coming?"
"Around ten, I think."
Buffy nodded, "An hour then..."
Ashley nodded. "What should I wear?"
Buffy looked thoughtful, "Come on, let's go see what you've got."
Ashley nodded and headed for her room.
Buffy followed her. In the living room, Rusty was still dead to the world.
Ashley giggled softly, looking at Rusty, then skated into her room.

Buffy followed Ashley and promptly dove into her closet.
Ashley quickly made her bed.
Buffy emerged from Ashley's closet with a few outfits.
Ashley grabbed a brush.
"What about this one?" Buffy asked.
"Mmm, too dull."
Buffy nodded, "How about this one?"
"Too bright."
She giggled and tossed it aside, digging again.
Ashley let her hair fall around her shoulders.
"Alright, how about this one?" Buffy asked.
Ashley raised a brow. "It's got a broken zipper."
"Really? I didn't know that," Buffy went back to her search.
Ashley sighed.
"I'm sure it won't matter what you wear..." Buffy said.
"I know, but I want to look pretty..."
"Ah, instead of how you normally look then," Buffy quickly dodged into the closet.
Ashley screamed and winged her pillow at Buffy.
Buffy giggled, blocking the pillow with the closet door, "I'm teasin'."
Ashley stuck out her tongue at Buffy and retrieved her pillow.
"You'll look pretty no matter what," Buffy said.
"I know, but I want to look special."
"Okay... how about this one?"
"Maybe..." Ashley said slowly.
Buffy hung it up and continued her search.
Ashley checked the clock and bit her lip.
"Or this one," Buffy offered.
"I guess it'll do."
"Personally I like this one," Buffy said, "but if you want to ask someone else..."

Ashley's eyes lit up, and she shot into the living room. "Rusty!"
Rusty was still asleep.
Ashley gave him a shake. "Rusty, wake up!"
"no..."
"Wake up!" Ashley hissed in his ear.
He opened a sleepy eye and regarded her.
"I need your opinion."
"Sleep is nice," he said, promptly.
"That's not what I needed. Come on." She yanked on his arm.
He yawned and sleepily followed her.
Ashley held up the dress Buffy had selected. "What do you think?"
He rubbed his eyes and blinked, "nice..."
"Is it pretty?"
"Uh huh..."
"Do you like it on me?"
He shrugged.
Ashley raised a brow.
"You're not wearin' it..."
"Want me to put it on?"
"then you'd be wearin' it..." he mumbled sleepily.
Ashley disappeared into the closet.
Rusty closed his eyes and leaned up against the wall.
Buffy held back a giggle.

A few minutes later, Ashley emerged in the dress. "Well?"
"Rusty!" Buffy gently poked him.
"Wha?" he asked, waking up again.
"What do you think?"
He blinked and looked at Buffy puzzled.
"Her dress Rusty, what do you think of her dress?" Buffy said.
Ashley twirled for him to see.
He blinked, his vision clearing, and then he nodded, "Pretty."
"You like it?"
He nodded.
Ashley smiled. "Good. I'll wear this then." She adjusted it a bit.
Rusty nodded and turned to go back to sleep.

"Rusty, wait."
"What?" Rusty asked.
"I need you to do my hair."
"Huh?" he blinked, "Oh. Hair. Braid. Right."
Ashley nodded and sat down on the edge of the bed.
He skated over to her and yawned before picking up her brush.
Ashley smiled at him. "Thanks."
"Uh huh..." he started brushing her hair.
"Careful," Ashley cautioned.
He nodded, just as the brush snagged.
"Ouch!" Ashley exclaimed.
"Sorry," he said softly.
"It's okay."
He went back to brushing, automatically brushing her hair until it shone.
Ashley giggled softly.
He set the brush down and started braiding.
"Make sure it's tight," Ashley reminded.
"I know," he said.
"Good."
Buffy skated out of the room while Rusty finished up.
Ashley hummed to herself.
"There," he said.
Ashley smiled. "Pretty. Thanks."
He nodded and yawned again.
"You can go back to bed now."
"Nah, I think I'm too awake now."
"I'm sorry."
He rubbed his eyes and squinted at his watch.
Ashley headed to the bathroom to wash her face.

Rusty was in the midst of annoying Buffy in the kitchen when there was a knock on the door.
Ashley was still locked in the bathroom, doing her makeup.
Buffy looked out the window, "I'll get Ashley, you answer the door," she said to Rusty, who nodded.
Ashley hummed to herself, making sure all her makeup was shiny and perfect.
Buffy knocked on the door of the bathroom, "Ashley..." she said in a singsong voice, "he's heeere."
Ashley screamed and tore out of the bathroom, almost knocking Buffy over.

Rusty opened the door to admit Bobo.
"Hello, Rusty. Where is Ashley."
"In the bathroom, I think..." he said, "She'll be out."
"Oh. Why are you here in her home?" Bobo asked.
"I work here," he answered.
"You work here?" Bobo repeated.
"Uh huh," he answered, still a bit sleepy.
"For whom?"
"Ashley...sometimes Buffy."
"You work for Ashley?"
He nodded.
"Why?" Bobo asked skeptically.
"'Cause..." he stifled another yawn.
"What do you do?"
"I pull her around..."
"You pull her?"
"Uh huh, and Buffy."
"Why do you do so?"
"Ah..."
"I beg your pardon?"
"'Cause I do..."
Bobo went silent.
He shrugged, "Lost a bet."
"Oh," he said softly.
"Yeah," Rusty said, "I don't mind though."
"I am sure you do not," Bobo said softly.
He shook his head.

Suddenly Ashley dashed into the kitchen. "Bobo!"
Bobo turned and smiled when he saw his coach, and skated over to her.
Ashley skated into his arms and held him tight.
He kissed her hello.
Ashley looked up at him and smiled shyly.
Bobo smiled down at her, "hello Ashley."
"Hi," Ashley said softly.
"I missed you," he said.
"I missed you too."
He kissed her gently.
Ashley kissed him back, hugging him tightly.
Rusty silently rolled past them into the kitchen. Bobo saw him pass and slowly intensified the kiss.
Ashley didn't notice Rusty, holding the intense kiss, her eyes closed.
Bobo held her tightly.
Ashley snuggled against his chest.
Finally he pulled out of the kiss, hugging her tightly.

Ashley looked up at him with teary eyes. "I'm so sorry I ran away."
"I'm sorry I made you upset enough to run away," he said.
Ashley shook her head. "It wasn't your fault."
"No. I should have told you."
"I wouldn't have given you a chance."
"It does not matter. I love you."
"And I love you." Ashley traced a hand over his cheek.
He set his hand on hers.
Ashley touched his hand.
He smiled at her.
Ashley smiled back, closing her eyes and resting her cheek on his chest.
Bobo slowly led her over to the couch.
Ashley followed him, her eyes wide.
He sat down.
Ashley sat down next to him.

Bobo shifted and realized that he was sitting on a rather large pink pillow.
Ashley giggled softly and pulled the pillow away, dropping it on the floor.
He looked puzzled.
"Rusty slept on the couch," Ashley said simply.
"He spent the night here?" Bobo asked.
Ashley nodded. "Yeah, since he's working here."
"That is what he said..." Bobo said slowly.
Ashley nodded. "Just til the end of the week..."
"Oh," he smiled, "Good."
Ashley giggled softly. "Don't worry."
"I am not worrying," he said.
Ashley smiled. "Good." She leaned in for a kiss.
He kissed her firmly.
Ashley moaned and curled against him.
"I love you," he said again, pulling her close.
Ashley snuggled closer still. "And I, you."

At just that moment, Rusty and Buffy emerged from the kitchen. "Sorry," Buffy said as they passed, "We were just leaving."
"Bye," Ashley said absently, gazing into Bobo's eyes.
Buffy grinned and urged Rusty out the door. Bobo relaxed once they had gone.
Ashley looked up at him. "Are you all right?"
He nodded and smiled, "Better then that."
Ashley smiled. "You're so sweet."
He kissed her again.
Ashley kissed him back.

Rusty was looking back at Buffy and they were discussing various and assorted things, mainly having to do with dinner that night. Rusty wasn't really paying attention to where he was going, although he was listening for traffic, but usually at this time of day, no one went on these rails.
All of a sudden, Greaseball stepped onto the tracks in front of them.
"But I dunno..." Rusty was saying, "It didn't seem like-"
Buffy's eyes widened, "Rusty, look out!"
Rusty looked forward and his eyes widened as well. He frantically slammed on his brakes, but he was too close.
Greaseball stood firm as Rusty collided with him.
Buffy uncoupled right before impact.
Greaseball glared down at Rusty.
Rusty detangled himself from Greaseball and inched backwards.
"Nice stop."

"I'm sorry!" Rusty gasped, "I didn't- and then I did- and I couldn't- but I tried- I'm sorry!"
Greaseball smirked. "Perhaps you should get your brakes looked at. I think they're getting as rusty as you."
Rusty swallowed and lowered his eyes to the rails.
"Aw, did I hut Wusty's feewings?"
Rusty shook his head slowly, "I'm sorry," he said again.
"Good. You should be."
"But you didn't whistle..." Rusty said, without really thinking.
"Why should I?"
"Suppose to whistle when you change tracks..."
"I didn't change tracks."
"But you weren't there before..."
"You should have been watching where you were going. Especially with a coach. What if she had gotten hurt?"
"I know..." Rusty said softly, hanging his head.
Greaseball smirked. "So, you better be more careful."

Buffy skated up behind Rusty and gently touched his shoulder.
"Is Buffy your little master now?"
Rusty looked up, "What?"
"Is she your boss?"
He shook his head.
"Aw, too bad."
Buffy hitched up, "come on Rusty."
"Did I say he could go?"
"No, but I did." Buffy answered sweetly.
"Well, I'm head engine."
Buffy shrugged and gave Rusty's couplings a tug, pulling him backwards.
Greaseball grabbed Rusty's collar.
Rusty yelped.
"I'm not finished with you."
"I..." Rusty started.
"Did someone speak?" Greaseball said huffily.
"I lied," Rusty said softly.
"About what?"
"Buffy..."
"What about her?"

"Rusty," Buffy said, sounding annoyed, "I said that you didn't have to tell him anything."
"yeah but-" he started.
"Are you arguing with me?" Buffy asked.
"...no..." he said softly.
Greaseball smirked. "Aww, is Buffy bossing you around, Rusty?"
He didn't answer, turning red. "Put him down please," Buffy requested.
"Why should I?"
"Aww come on sugar, you're gonna make me late," Buffy said.
"Late for what?"
"Oh didn't you hear? Bobo came to visit," Buffy said.
"Oh, did he?"
Buffy nodded, "I promise that I'd make Ashley dinner, but I gotta run over to the trainwash first... and if I don't get there soon I'm not gonna get back in time to make dinner."

Greaseball smirked and dropped Rusty in a heap at his feet.
Rusty scrambled to his wheels and Buffy hitched up again.
"Get along now. Be a good boy, Rusty."
Rusty stiffened and moved out.
Greaseball smirked after him.
Buffy looked back and grinned at Greaseball.
Greaseball blew a kiss after her and skated off.
"Thank you..." Rusty said to Buffy, "Thank you, thank you, thank you..."
Buffy grinned and guided him into the building.

Several hours later, Buffy poked her head out of the building and dutifully looked around for Greaseball.
Greaseball was far down the tracks, pulling a train.
Buffy leaned against the wall outside, waiting, looking a bit bored.
"Well come on Rusty," she called, "The coast is clear, we gotta get home." He emerged from the building, hitched her up, and took off down the tracks.

Back at the house, Ashley curled on her bed, sighing softly.
Bobo gently stroked her hair.
Ashley looked up at him with adoring eyes.
"I love you," he said. Just then they both heard the front door slam.
Ashley sighed softly. "They're back." She looked up at him. "I love you too."
"Do we have to do anything now that they have returned?" Bobo asked.
Ashley shook her head. "No."
He smiled, "Good."
Ashley giggled and shifted against him. "Too comfy to move."
"Yes," he said.
Ashley grinned and traced her fingertips down his cheek.
"As you said," he settled down, "Too comfy to move."
Ashley nodded.
"What time is it?" he asked.
Ashley checked the clock. "Four o'clock."
He nodded, "I would like to take you to dinner..." he started.
"Oh, well, Buffy was going to make us dinner."
"She was?" he asked, he smiled, "Well then we can just stay here."
Ashley nodded.

In the kitchen, Buffy was in full cooking mode, and Rusty was meekly following orders so as not to annoy her.

Ashley giggled softly. "Sounds like Buffy's making a mess in the kitchen."
Bobo laughed softly.
Ashley looked up at him and touched his cheek.
He smiled, "Well I'm glad we don't have to worry about dinner."
Ashley nodded. "Me too."
There was another clatter from the kitchen.
Ashley shifted towards the sound. "I hope she doesn't burn the house down."
"Has she done it before?"
"Burned the house down?"
He nodded with a wink.
Ashley shook her head. "No. Dinah's come close though."
"Really?"
"Yeah."
He hugged her closer.
Ashley snuggled into his arms.
Eventually the clattering settled down.
"She must have figured out what she's doing," Ashley said softly.
Bobo grinned.
Ashley smiled back.

Buffy skated over and rapped on the door, "Dinner's at six..." she said.
"Sounds good," Ashley called back.
"Good, cuz that's when it is..." Buffy said.
Ashley giggled.

At five minutes to six, the table was set and Rusty was going back into the kitchen after lighting the candles.

Ashley sighed from her spot on the bed. "Guess we should get up."
Bobo nodded, getting up and offering her a hand, "Would you do me the honor of joining me for dinner?"
Ashley giggled and took his hand. "That I would."
He smiled and pulled her up, kissing her hand.
Ashley turned red and giggled softly.
Bobo turned so she could hitch up.
Ashley hitched onto him with a soft giggle.
He pulled her out to the dining room.
Ashley followed, holding tightly to him.
He stopped and looked at the table.
Ashley stared at what Buffy had done. "Wow, Buff..."

Buffy had decided to dress the part as the hostess and she emerged from the kitchen.
Ashley giggled softly.
"Sit, sit," Buffy directed with a wink at her best friend.
Ashley winked back and skated over to the table.
Bobo pulled out her chair for her.
Ashley grinned up at him and sat down. "Such a gentleman."
"For you it is not hard," he answered, sitting down in his own seat.
Ashley blushed.
Buffy nodded and turned into the kitchen. There was a pause and she rolled her eyes, skating into the kitchen with a, "well you wanted to help..."
Ashley giggled and smiled shyly at Bobo.
Buffy rolled back out into the dining room, over to Ashley, "Ashley, honey," she whispered, "I gotta warn you of something?quot;
"What?"
"Y'know our...friend that's been staying with us?"
Ashley nodded.
"He's kinda reddish gold," Buffy said.
Ashley raised a brow.
"You'll see..." Buffy said, going back into the kitchen.
Ashley rolled her eyes and went back to Bobo.

A few minutes later the doors to the kitchen swung in and Rusty skated out with two plates. Under Buffy's supervision, he had also been to the trainwash. She was right, when he was clean his paint was a reddish gold color. She had brushed his hair back so it wasn't flopped across his head as usual.
Ashley's eyes went wide, and she stared at Rusty in shock.
Rusty smiled at her as she set her salad in front of her, then Bobo's, then he skated back into the kitchen.
Ashley shook her head to clear it. She had never imagined Rusty could turn out so cute.

"Are you alright?" Bobo asked.
Ashley nodded quickly. "Yeah."
He smiled at her warmly.
Ashley smiled back/
He leaned over and gave her a quick kiss.
Ashley kissed him back, then reached for her fork.
Rusty returned later to take their dishes and bring out the next course.
Ashley avoided looking at him.
Bobo's eyes narrowed a fraction when he saw Rusty, but he quickly returned to normal.
Ashley looked up at Bobo and smiled. "Enjoying yourself?"
He nodded, "The food is wonderful, but the company is even better."
Ashley blushed.
"It is true," he said.
Ashley smiled shyly. "Thanks."
He smiled at her.
Ashley giggled and took a sip of her drink.
Buffy appeared, "And how are things going?" she asked.
"Just fine," Ashley said softly.
"Very good," Bobo said, "The food is wonderful."
Buffy smiled, "Let me know if you need anything else. I have plenty of food."
Ashley giggled. "Thanks."
Buffy nodded
Ashley went back to eating.
Buffy returned to the kitchen.

Ashley glanced back at Bobo and smiled shyly. "I'm glad you came."
"I'm glad as well," he said, "When you came before I realized how difficult it is to be, without you around me."
Ashley smiled and blushed. "I missed you so much."
Bobo smiled, "I'm glad that I am here."
"I'm glad you're here too."

"Would you excuse me for a minute?" Bobo asked, later during dinner.
Ashley nodded.
Bobo smiled and stood up, heading towards the bathroom.
Ashley watched him go, sighing softly.

Rusty skated out from the kitchen to pick up the plates.
Ashley glanced up at him. Her breath caught in her throat.
"Are you finished?" he asked.
Ashley nodded slowly. "Rusty..."
"Yeah?"
"You... you look so handsome..."
He blinked, and then his ears turned red, "yeah....well... it's Buffy's fault."
"Well, it's not bad."
He smiled, "Thanks..."
Ashley slowly stood up and reached out to touch his shiny frame.
"It's really me," he teased, not moving away from her.
"I know."
"I should get dessert," Rusty started.
Ashley's hand touched his shiny chestplate.
"You...you should see what Buffy made," he said.
Ashley moved closer to him, her hand tracing up to his shoulder.
"She-she said that I could...have some..." Rusty took a step back to the kitchen.
Ashley followed. "Rusty..."
"what?" he asked automatically.
Ashley's other hand followed the pattern of the first one.
He took another step back.
Ashley followed.
He pushed the door to the kitchen open with his skate and started to retreat.
Ashley made a grab for his couplers but missed.
He headed into the kitchen.
Ashley sighed and headed back to her spot.
In the kitchen, Rusty and Buffy were having a bit of an argument about who was going to serve dessert.
Ashley sat down to wait for Bobo.
Buffy won, and Rusty skated out with a large plate holding a fancy dessert.
Ashley bit her lip and stayed in her spot.

Bobo returned from the bathroom and skated over to Ashley.
Ashley smiled up at him.
He kissed her gently and then his eyes widened when he saw the plate.
Ashley followed his gaze and squealed softly in delight.
Rusty set it down with a flourish in the center of the table.
Ashley smiled up at him. "Thanks, Rusty."
He nodded, "It looks good. Enjoy."
Ashley nodded. "We will. Thanks." She smiled shyly at him.
Rusty nodded and returned to the kitchen.

Ashley watched a moment more, then turned back to Bobo.
Bobo picked up a knife and cut Ashley a piece.
Ashley held out her plate for the delicious-looking delicacy.
Bobo smiled as he passed it over.
Ashley smiled back.

After dessert, Rusty returned to fetch the plates.
Ashley smiled at him, then at Bobo.
"I hope that everything was good," Rusty said.
"Very good," Bobo said.
Ashley nodded. "Very good," she echoed.
"Good," Rusty said, "Because I, for one, wouldn't dare tell her otherwise." He smiled and started gathering up the plates.
Ashley giggled softly. "Me either."
He nodded and rolled into the kitchen.
Ashley turned back to Bobo.
He smiled and took her hands.
Ashley glanced down at their hands, then up at him and smiled.
He leaned closer.
Ashley leaned closer to.
"I love you," he said, "You were the best part of this evening."
Ashley blushed.
"I would not trade it for anything," he said.
"Me either."
He kissed her.
Ashley kissed him back.
He intensified the kiss.
Ashley moaned softly and held his face with her hands.
He put his arms around her.
Ashley did the same.
Bobo pulled away gently, and slowly lifted her to her wheels.
Ashley cuddled into his embrace.
He stood there for a minute, just holding her.
Ashley rested her head under his chin.

Rusty skated out again to get the rest of the dishes. He blushed furiously when he saw them and hightailed it back into the kitchen.
Ashley glanced back at Rusty.
"Sorry," Rusty said softly, averting his eyes as he did his job.
Ashley nodded, but she kept one eye on him.
Bobo didn't notice. Rusty returned into the kitchen with an armload of stuff.
Ashley curled back into Bobo's arms and snuggled close.

Bobo gently pulled her into the living room.
Ashley followed.
"You must thank Buffy for me," Bobo said.
"I will," Ashley said softly. She sat down on the couch and smiled up at him.
Bobo sat down next to her and then saw the clock and sighed softly.
"What?" Ashley asked softly.
"It is late," he said a bit sadly.
"A little..."
He hugged her tightly.
Ashley held him tightly.
He leaned back, getting comfortable.
Ashley cuddled into his arms.
"We should go out," he said softly.
Ashley nodded. "We should."
He started to get up.
Ashley got up with him.
He led her over to the door.
Ashley followed, smiling shyly.

Once he was outside he waited for her to hitch up.
Ashley hitched behind him, rubbing her knee against the back of his leg a moment.
He smiled and then took off down the tracks.
Ashley followed behind.
Bobo took off into the night.

They came home later the next morning, Ashley very giggly.
The house was still asleep when they got home.
Ashley yawned slowly.
Bobo kissed her gently and put his arms around her.
Ashley moved into his arms, resting her head on his chest and closing her eyes.
Bobo shifted and lifted her off her wheels.
Ashley giggled softly, cuddling closer to him.
He carried her into her room.
Ashley hugged him round the neck.
He spun around once he had reached her room.
Ashley looked up at him with adoring eyes. "Stay with me?" she pleaded.
He nodded and set her down on her bed.
Ashley cuddled into her mattress.
He sank down next to her.
Ashley smiled sleepily at him.'
He reached over and stroked her face, "Good night."
"It's morning," Ashley giggled sleepily.
"Good morning then," he said.
Ashley giggled, finding this very funny for some reason.
"Sleep now," he said gently.
"But I want you to stay."
"I am," he said.
Ashley stroked his thigh gently with a hand.
He gathered her into his arms, kissing her forehead.
Ashley curled against his chest, her hand tracing over his strong arms.
"Sleep now," he said, "I will be here."
"Dun wanna sleep," Ashley mumbled.
He smiled and close his eyes.
Ashley traced her hands over his legs.

Later that same morning, Bobo was sadly saying farewell.
Ashley's tears were dripping down her face. "Don't leave," she pleaded.
Bobo hugged her close.
Ashley cuddled into his arms, tears splashing onto his chest plate.
"I love you," he said, "And I will see you soon again."
Ashley sniffed softly. "I love you."
"I love you too, so much. More then I can say."
Ashley hugged him, tears splashing into her ashtrays. "Will you call me?"
"As soon as I get home," he promised.
Ashley smiled up at him gratefully, trying to memorize everything about him at once.
"And then before I go to bed, and when I get up tomorrow..." he continued.
Ashley giggled softly. "Are you trying to make me feel better?"
"No..." he said, "I am trying to make myself feel better."
Ashley smiled and traced a hand down his cheek.
He touched her hand.
Ashley smiled softly and stood up on her toe stops to kiss him.
He kissed her back.
Ashley held the kiss, not wanting to let go.

After a long time that didn't seem long enough Bobo pulled away for air.
Ashley whimpered softly and latched onto him tightly.
He held her close for another minute and then gently started to detach her. "I have to go, otherwise I will get into trouble."
Ashley swallowed and nodded. "I... I don't want that..."
He shook his head, and then smiled, "I will call you soon."
Ashley smiled and nodded slowly.
He kissed her one last time.
Ashley held the kiss, crying as she did.

"Don't cry," he said after he had pulled away.
Ashley sniffed softly and scrubbed at tears.
"You look prettier when you don't," he explained.
Ashley blushed and smiled, forcing back her tears.
"That's better," he said with a smile, "I will talk to you soon."
"I love you," Ashley whispered.
"I love you too," he said, pulling away slowly.
Ashley held onto him as long as she could, then stretched out her hands to him.
He backed down the tracks, eyes on her.
Ashley watched him, trying hard not to cry.
He blew her a kiss.
Ashley blew him a kiss back.
Bobo finally vanished down the tracks.
Ashley waited til he was gone, then skated inside, closing the door.

Buffy and Rusty were in the kitchen.
Ashley skated into the kitchen slowly.
"Now, as promised," Buffy said, setting down the leftover dessert from last night on the table in front of Rusty.
Ashley sat down next to Rusty, not really seeing anything.
Buffy gave Ashley a sympathetic look.
Ashley looked up at her and smiled weakly.
"You'll see him again," Buffy assured her.
"I know," Ashley sighed.
Buffy nodded, "Want anything?"
Ashley shook her head and took a crumb off of Rusty's dessert plate.
"Buffy, this is really really good..." Rusty was saying.
Ashley picked at Rusty's plate.
"Hey..." he protested good-naturedly.
Ashley didn't pay much attention.
He pulled his plate away
Ashley didn't notice.
He stood up and took his empty plate to the sink
Ashley just sat at the table.

"Hmm..." Buffy said to Rusty, "I should comb your hair back again..."
Ashley sighed softly to herself.
"But I like it this way," Rusty said.
"Sit down," Buffy ordered, "You look nice with your hair back like that."
Ashley got up and skated into the living room.

A few minutes later Rusty ran out of the kitchen, running away from Buffy.
Ashley was sitting on the couch.
He didn't notice, nearly tripping over the couch.
Ashley looked up at him. "Careful."
He looked up at her sheepishly.
Ashley patted the couch next to her. "Sit down."
"okay," he sat down next to her, "Feeling any better?"
"A little," Ashley said softly.
"Good," he said.
Ashley smiled weakly at him.
He smiled back
Ashley slowly touched his shoulder. "I like how you cleaned up."
He blushed, "oh...well..."
"You look nice when you're not all dirty."
"Thanks..." he said, "I think..."
Ashley giggled softly.
He smiled.

Ashley moved closer and laid her cheek on his shoulder, needing some comfort.
"You'll see him again," Rusty said.
"I... I know..."
He smiled and patted her hand.
Ashley smiled shyly up at him. "You look really handsome."
He blushed.
"Well, you do. I mean, all shiny and new-looking... You look really good with gold..."
"Thanks..." he said softly.
"Maybe you should get painted again. It makes you look really good."
"Oh..." he said softly, "Well...um..."
Ashley smiled. "It would bring out your eyes a lot more."
He closed his eyes shyly.
Ashley smiled and touched his chin. "No need to be shy, Rusty. You have pretty eyes."
He didn't open his eyes, ears bright red now.

Ashley touched his cheek. "Rusty?"
"Yeah?"
"Open your eyes..." Ashley requested softly.
He slowly opened his eyes.
Ashley smiled. "That's better."
"Yeah..." he said softly, looking away.
Ashley sighed softly.
"Still sad?" he asked softly, turning to her.
Ashley nodded slowly.
He reached over and gave her a quick hug.
Ashley cuddled against his shiny chest plate.
He pulled away.
Ashley pulled away too, curling into a ball in the corner of the couch.
He sighed softly.
Ashley sniffed softly.

At that moment Buffy emerged from the kitchen, brandishing a comb.
Ashley didn't notice, tears starting to fall down her face.
"Aw come on Buffy," he said.
"Hold still," Buffy ordered, "It's not like it hurts."
Ashley closed her eyes and pulled a pillow to her chest.
"Ashley, look what she's doing to me," Rusty fake-whined.
Ashley didn't move.
"Oh come on and hold still," Buffy said.
Ashley pulled the pillow against her face.
Rusty made a face as Buffy combed his hair back neatly.
Ashley sobbed silently into the pillow.
"There," Buffy said, "Ashley, whaddya think?"
Ashley's wet, brown eyes peered over the edge of the pillow.
Buffy had combed Rusty's hair back the way it was last night.
"Nice," Ashley croaked.
"see," Buffy said to Rusty.
Ashley buried her face in the pillow again.
"Didn't work," Buffy said.
Rusty sighed and reached up to run his hand through his hair.
"Don't touch!" Buffy ordered.
Ashley got up, threw the pillow onto the couch, and raced into her room, slamming the door.
Rusty and Buffy looked at each other and sighed.

Ashley flung herself on the bed and sobbed.
Rusty stood up and moved over to her door.
Ashley sobbed into her pillow.
He knocked softly.
Ashley ignored it.
He knocked harder.
Ashley sniffed angrily.

Rusty slowly pushed the door open. A shaft of light from the window reflected off his now shiny frame, making him glow.
Ashley looked up at him and blinked as Rusty entered in a halo of light.
"Ashley?" he asked softly.
"What?"
"I...uh... can I come in?"
Ashley nodded slowly.
He slowly skated in.
Ashley laid her face back down in the pillow.
"Ashley?" he asked again.
"What?" Ashley mumbled around a mouthful of pillow.

"I...I'm not really the authority of this," he said, sitting down next to her, "But..."
Ashley sniffed softly.
"I think that you're not supposed to be sad after you spend time with someone you love," he said with a smile.
Ashley looked up at him.
He smiled at her.
Ashley couldn't smile back.
His smile faded, "Aw come Ashley... cheer up."
"I... I can't..."
"You were so happy yesterday..."
"I... I know..."
"Besides, he's gonna call you, right?"
Ashley nodded weakly.
"Would he want you to be sad right now?" Rusty asked.
Ashley shook her head.
"Well then," he said.
Ashley sighed and laid her cheek on the pillow.
Rusty gently touched her shoulder.
Ashley looked up at him.
"Don't be sad," he said, "The next few days won't be fun if you're bummed."
Ashley sighed softly and shifted so she could lay her cheek on Rusty's thigh.

"This isn't working is it?" he asked.
Ashley shook her head slowly.
"Rats," he said with a sigh.
Ashley sighed and hugged his leg tightly.
"Well I tried," he said.
Ashley shifted so she was sitting up and slowly moved to cuddle into his lap.
"How long are you planing to be sad?" Rusty asked.
Ashley shrugged one petit shoulder and put her arms around Rusty's neck, snuggling her body firmly into his lap.
"Uh..."
Ashley sniffed softly.
"What are you doing?" he asked.
"I need to be held," Ashley said softly.
"Oh. okay," he said.
Ashley snuggled her nose into his neck.
He sat there, not moving.
Ashley sighed softly.

Rusty leaned back against the headboard.
Ashley shifted a bit so his arms were more around her.
Rusty didn't notice.
Ashley slowly ran her hand down Rusty's chest.
He jumped slightly, startled.
Ashley's hands traced down his arms, then back up.
Rusty gave her a hug.
Ashley held him tight and pushed herself up to kiss his chin.
He pulled his head back.
Ashley shifted so she was sitting in his lap facing him, her thigh pressed against his.
He blinked.

Ashley touched her mouth to his.
His eyes widened.
"Mmm," Ashley said softly, her hands going up to stroke his neatly groomed hair.
Thoroughly confused, he just sorta watched her.
Ashley's hands landed on his shoulders, and she pushed him, gently but firmly, trying to push him down against the mattress.
He resisted against her.
Ashley just pushed him more firmly, which made him resist harder.
Ashley finally stopped trying to push him and instead settled for rubbing his shoulders, trying to make him relax.
He tensed up.
Ashley shifted again so her chest pressed to his, her hands going up to stroke his jaw.
His eyes were huge.
Ashley stroked his cheek the way that he had liked so much before.
Rusty felt his skin get hot, and his body relaxed on it's own.
Ashley smiled to herself and did it again, rubbing his back with her free hand.
Rusty opened his mouth to say something, but suddenly discovered he had lost the ability to speak.

Ashley's mouth suddenly covered his open mouth.
He gasped softly.
Ashley made a soft sound in the back of her throat, kissing him passionately.
He sat there in astonishment.
Ashley tried to push him down with her own body.
He stiffened and tried not to move.
Ashley ran her hand over his cheeks and let her lips explore his own.
"mm!" he protested.
Ashley ignored him, her fingers trailing down his chest.
"mmph..." he said in a resigned tone.
Ashley ignored him, her hands stroking up his thighs.
He closed his eyes.

Ashley slowly tried to push him back again.
He blinked his hot eyes and let her.
Ashley smiled to herself as she held him down with her body, kissing him softly.
He allowed himself to relax.
Ashley rubbed her thigh against his gently, stroking his cheek with soft hands.
He took a deep breath.
Ashley ran one hand down his face as she kissed him, the other sliding between the two of them, sliding down past his belt, just a little lower than she normally would.
His eyes shot open, much wider then they often were. He tried to push her off.
Ashley paid no attention.
He caught one of her wrists in his hand.
Ashley tried to twist her arm out of his grip.
He hung on tightly.
Ashley whimpered softly and relaxed a bit.
When he felt her relax, he eased off.

Ashley used her free hand to stroke down Rusty's cheek again.
He relaxed slightly.
Ashley did it again, slowly trying to wiggle her wrist out of his grip.
He closed his eyes again.
Ashley finally got her wrist free and slowly traced her hands down his chest, ever so lightly.
He opened his eyes again, a bit frightened.
Ashley slowly slid her arms around him to squeeze his couplers.
He stared at her with wide eyes.
Her hands slid around his waist, staying on his coupler belt.
He felt his heart increase it's tempo.
Ashley's mouth met his as her hands traced over his slim hips.
He shrank under her touch.
Ashley's hands slid down his thighs, then back up.
He closed his eyes and swallowed hard.
Ashley's hands got closer and closer to a rather precarious spot.
Rusty moved his hands to her arms and eased down towards her wrists again.
Ashley didn't notice.
He started to grab her wrists again.
Ashley broke the kiss and slowly pushed his hands away from her wrists.
He panted and gazed up at her.

Ashley was breathing a little harder than usual, her eyes bright. She slowly leaned down and touched her mouth to his, her hands just supporting herself on the mattress, so as not to spook him.
He made a rather odd strangled sort of sound.
Ashley cuddled herself firmly against him, moaning softly.
He tensed up.
"Just relax," Ashley mumbled softly, breaking the kiss just long enough to say that.
"no."
Ashley ignored him, gently stroking his cheek again to make him relax.
"no!"
Ashley kissed him again, her hands tracing lower again.
He whimpered softly.
Ashley's hands went for Rusty's belt.
He tried to push her off.
Ashley ignored him, starting to undo it.
He moved his hands to her waist.
Ashley almost melted into his arms.
He gently set his hands on her hips.
Ashley moaned softly against his lips.
He took a breath and pushed her, very hard.
Ashley lost her grip on him and had to keep herself from landing hard on the bed.
He tried to wiggle out from under her.
Ashley caught herself and slid her hands down his hips.
He struggled against her.
Ashley's hands moved to his belt again.
He froze suddenly.
Ashley fumbled with the buckle.

Suddenly he let out a burst of steam. He pushed against her, not really wanting to know where he was touching her, and rolled over.
Ashley yelped and tumbled off of him, rubbing her eyes painfully, on her back next to him on the bed.
Rusty was on his wheels in a flash, heading towards the door.
Ashley began to cry softly, rubbing her face with was red where Rusty had hit her with steam.
Rusty bolted out of the room and into the bathroom, which was the nearest room. He shut the door and leaned against it, sinking to the ground, breathing hard.
Ashley cried, rubbing her face with both hands.
Rusty moved over to the bathtub and sat down in it, turning on the water.

Ashley slowly got up, skating over to the bathroom door and banging on it with her fist. "Rusty!"
"What?" he asked, making sure the door was locked.
"Why in the name of diesel did you do that to me?"
He sighed.
Ashley rubbed her face where the skin still hurt. "I wasn't hurting you, Rusty. And you went and treated me like some kind of tart train!"
"No," Rusty said, "I couldn't... too much steam... too much pressure... had to let it out somehow..."
"Well, you didn't have to burn my eyes!"
"I'm sorry," he said.
"No you're not!" Ashley sobbed.
"Yes I am. I didn't mean to burn you."
Ashley sobbed. "Just get out of my house!"
"You mean it?" he looked up.
Ashley sobbed and leaned against the door weakly, not answering him.
He turned off the water and went over to the door, "You mean it?" he repeated.
"No, I don't!" Ashley yelled.
"Oh," Rusty sank to the ground again.
Ashley sobbed furiously.
Rusty curled up, water dripping from his hair down the back of his neck, but he didn't much care.
Ashley sat down, leaning against the door, crying into her hands.

"Ashley?" Buffy asked, rushing towards her best friend.
Ashley looked up at Buffy through red eyes.
"Ashley? What's wrong?"
Ashley shook her head violently.
Buffy sank down to her knees next to her friend, and then noticed that Ashley's skin seemed a bit redder then usual.
Ashley buried her face in her hands again, tears seeping from between her fingers.
Buffy set her hand on Ashley's shoulder, "What happened to your face?" she asked softly.
Ashley sniffed hard and looked up at Buffy with sad eyes. "Rusty..."
"Rusty?" Buffy repeated in astonishment.
Ashley nodded weakly.
"But- how- why would he..." Buffy sputtered.
Ashley began to cry again, this time on Buffy's shoulder.

Behind them, the door slowly inched open.
Ashley didn't notice.
Rusty slid something round out the door and then closed it again.
Ashley sniffed softly and curled into Buffy's arms.
"What?" Buffy started, as something hit her. She picked up the small round container and looked at it. "It's for burns..." Rusty's muffled voice said.
Ashley moved away from her. "No."
"Yeah." Buffy said, pushing the jar down the hallway.
Ashley shook her head. "I'm not taking anything from him anymore."
"Good," Buffy said.
Ashley sniffed and cried softly.
Buffy slowly rose to her skates and turned to the bathroom door.
Ashley clung to the wall.

Buffy pounded hard on the door, "You come out of there RIGHT NOW!"
Ashley staggered to her feet.
"No," Rusty said, "You can't make me."
Ashley stumbled over to the door.
Buffy rolled her eyes.
Ashley scrubbed painfully at her eyes with her hand.
"I'm warning you Rusty, come out or we'll be comin' in!" Buffy called, reaching up to her hair.
Ashley whimpered softly.
"I'm gonna kill him," Buffy said softly.
Ashley shook her head slowly. "Let me."
There was no answer from the bathroom and so Buffy pulled out a hair pin.
Ashley stood by her side.
"Last chance Rusty!" Buffy called.
Ashley steadied herself on the door.
When he didn't reply, Buffy stuck her pin in the lock and started to wiggle it.
Ashley waited.

"Wait-" Rusty said from inside, "I'll come out..."
Ashley swallowed hard.
"Good," Buffy said. Rusty inched the door open.
Ashley still waited.
He opened the door slowly until it was open all the way.
Ashley's hand suddenly shot out and connected with Rusty's face with a sickening smack.
Rusty cried out and staggered under impact.
Ashley glared at him.
He looked up at her fearfully.
Ashley's eyes were full of angry tears.
"I'm sorry I burned you," he said softly, rubbing his cheek.
"No you're not."
"Yes I am," he said meekly.
Ashley glared at him.
He hung his head and looked at the ground.
Ashley reached for Buffy's hand. "Rusty, I..." Her voice was bitter.
He didn't look up as he listened to her.

Ashley suddenly grabbed him by his collar and started to drag him down the hall.
He whimpered softly but didn't fight.
Ashley pulled him to the basement door and opened it.
He looked at her confused.
Ashley almost pitched him headfirst down the staircase.
Rusty yelped and he nearly fell down the stairs, landing in a heap at the bottom. "Ouch..."

Ashley slammed the door and locked it securely, sticking the key in her pocket. "You're not coming out until this basement is clean, is that understood?"
"B-but..." he started to protest.
Ashley began to cry softly, leaning against the door.
"But Ashley-" he started, reaching the top of the stairs.
Ashley sobbed softly, rubbing her face gently with her fingertips.
"Ashley, come on, I said I was sorry..." he called through the door.
"No!" Ashley yelled back.
"But-"
"No!"
He wiggled the doorknob, "I'm sorry, I tried to move you..."
Ashley ignored him.
"Are you still there?" he asked.
"Of course," Ashley spat.
"Then let me explain-"
Ashley went silent.
"I'm sorry, but I do it automatically when I get scared..." he said.
"Why was it scary?" Ashley snarled. "I wasn't hurting you."
"Yes-"
Ashley hissed.

He sighed, "Can I have a broom?"
"No."
"Then how am I supposed to...?" he asked.
"You'll find some way."
"But Ashley," he whined.
"Be quiet!"
"But-"
"No!"
"Y-yes ma'am..." he said softly.
Ashley smirked and touched her face lightly.
"Where's the light?" he asked softly.
"By the stairs."

He fumbled around until he found the light switch. The basement was illuminated in cold light. He gasped loudly at what he saw.
Ashley sighed softly.
"You gotta be kidding me," Rusty said.
"No, I'm not."
"A-all of it?"
"Yes, all of it."
"But that'll take days!"
"Then you'll have plenty of time to yourself then, won't you?"
"But..." Rusty trailed off as he thought of something, she'd have to let him out soon anyway.
"I don't care how long it takes you, but you're not coming out til it's done."
"What?" he gasped.
"You heard me."
"But you can't- that's not fair-!"
"Neither was you burning me!"

Rusty pulled on the doorknob again.
Ashley slapped the door. "Stop that!"
He kicked the door.
Ashley kicked it back.
There was no answer.
Ashley smirked.
Rusty sneezed.
Ashley giggled softly.
Rusty blinked rapidly as he started to work.
Ashley skated back towards the bathroom to access her damage.

"What did you do to him?" Buffy asked, amused.
"Locked him in the basement."
"You...locked him in the basement?" Buffy repeated astonished.
Ashley nodded.
"Wow..."
Ashley giggled softly and looked at her face in the mirror.
"Oh, that doesn't look that bad," Buffy said.
Ashley nodded. "It'll heal, I think."
"So why did he do that to you anyway?" Buffy asked.
Ashley shook her head. "I dunno..."
"He just randomly decided to spray you with steam?"
Ashley sighed softly.
"How long are you going to leave him down there?"
"Til he's done cleaning it."
Buffy looked at her in astonishment and then started laughing.
"What?" Ashley asked.
"That's quite a punishment..." Buffy commented.
"Well, I could leave him down there forever," Ashley threatened.
"If you're making him clean it-" Buffy started.
Ashley giggled softly.
"Come on," Buffy said, "Lets get lunch."
Ashley nodded and followed Buffy.

After lunch, Buffy started putting together a plate.
"What's that for?" Ashley asked, wiping her mouth.
"Hmm? Well we gotta feed him..." Buffy said practically.
"Why?"
"Because we just...do..."
"No, we don't."
Buffy turned and looked at Ashley, surprised.
Ashley ignored her, heading for the sink.
Buffy turned back to the lunch she was making.

Ashley sighed and dumped her dishes in the sink with more noise than necessary.
"You're still really mad at him huh?" Buffy said.
"Yeah."
"But enough to starve him?"
Ashley nodded.
Buffy sighed.
Ashley sighed too.
"Well..." Buffy started taking food off the plate.
Ashley skated over to clean the table.
"Would it make you feel better if I just gave him bread and water?" Buffy asked, a twinkle in her eyes.
Ashley shook her head.
"Aww why not? Given his situation it makes sense..."
Ashley sighed. "I hope he starves."
"Oh come on, we both know you don't mean that."
"Yes, I do."
Buffy started towards the basement.
Ashley watched her.
"Where's the key?" Buffy asked, although she suspected she knew the answer.
Ashley touched her pocket.
"Oh," Buffy skated back over to the kitchen.
Ashley nodded.

"Well...I'll tell you what I think," Buffy said, putting the bread away.
Ashley shook her head.
"He's getting breakfast tomorrow." Buffy said.
Ashley shook her head.
"We'll see..."
Ashley sighed and headed for the living room.
"You can make him beg for it," Buffy offered.
"Maybe."
Buffy nodded, following her, "Think about it, he'll be dead tired, covered in dust, and starving. He'll do anything you want."
Ashley shook her head. "Not everything," she said softly.
Buffy raised an eyebrow questioningly.
Ashley ignored it and skated into the next room.
Buffy sighed and went to wash the dishes.
Ashley sat down on the couch.

The next morning Buffy wordlessly brought Ashley a plate.
Ashley took it, hardly seeing it.
"Can I have the key?" Buffy asked.
"Why?" Ashley's voice was soft.
"So I can open the door..."
Ashley was silent.
"Ashley, whatever else, he needs water."
Ashley bit her lip.
"He does," Buffy said again.
Ashley nodded once.
Buffy waited.
Ashley slowly reached into her pocket and touched the key.
Buffy still waited.
Ashley looked up at Buffy. "You won't let him out?"
She hesitated and then nodded.
Ashley slowly handed her the key, hesitating before letting go.
Buffy started towards the basement.
Ashley slowly stood up and followed, her own food forgotten.

Buffy waited at the door for Ashley.
Ashley stopped by her.
"Did you want to go down?" Buffy asked.
"I guess..."
Buffy handed Ashley the plate and the water bottle and then reached down to unlock the door.
Ashley bit her lip.
Buffy opened the door and nothing happened.
Ashley breathed a soft sigh.

"Rusty?" Buffy called down the stairs.
Ashley stood still.
There was no answer, so Buffy started down the stairs.
Ashley slowly followed.
"Rusty?" Buffy called again.
Ashley wondered where he could be.
There was a sound from the side of the basement.
Ashley turned.
Rusty staggered to his wheels, holding tightly onto the edge of the table.
Ashley moved behind Buffy.
He looked up at the two coaches with dull eyes.
Ashley swallowed.
He sank to the ground weakly.
Ashley looked up at Buffy.
Buffy rolled over to him and he looked up at her, frightened.
Ashley stayed where she was.
"Did you want water?" Buffy asked gently. He nodded eagerly.
Ashley held out the bottle silently to Buffy.
"...tha'" Rusty whispered reaching out for the water.
Ashley gave it to Buffy, not meeting Rusty's eyes.
She passed it over to the steamer, who downed it gratefully.
Ashley sighed silently.
He blinked up at her, not daring to move.
Ashley ignored him.

"I brought you food as well," Buffy said.
Ashley bit her lip.
Rusty perked up and he got up to his wheels.
Ashley moved closer to Buffy.
Buffy started to hand him the plate.
Ashley backed away angrily.
Rusty took the food and started wolfing it down.
Ashley turned to head back upstairs.
"I-" Rusty started softly.
Ashley paused but didn't turn around.

"Ashley-" he started again.
Ashley waited.
"Please-"
Ashley turned to him.
He sank to his knees.
Ashley glared down at him.
He sank down to all fours.
"Is this supposed to impress me?" Ashley snapped.
He shook his head.
"Then what?"
Rusty closed his eyes, "Please," he begged.
"Please what?"
"Please let me out," he begged.
"Why?"
He didn't answer, couldn't think of anything.
Ashley smirked.

Rusty threw himself down at her wheels.
Ashley gazed down at him with raised eyebrows.
"Please," he begged, "I don't deserve it, but please."
"You think an apology is gonna make up for what you did?"
"No," he said softly.
"Good, cause it won't."
"But..." Rusty started, "I know that I can't apologize enough, but please..."
Ashley shook her head.
He hugged her around her ankles.
Ashley almost lost her balance.
He kept her from falling.
Ashley glared down at him. "Let go."

"Please, I'll do a- almost anything," Rusty said.
Ashley smirked. "That's what I thought."
He looked up at her, unsure.
Ashley kicked a skate to get him off of her.
He whimpered and let go.
Ashley backed away from, disgusted.
He didn't move, "Anything," he said finally.
"You wouldn't do anything I asked."
He cringed and then nodded.
Ashley smirked. "I doubt it."
He closed his eyes.
Ashley headed for the stairs again.
"Yes."
"Yes what?"
"What do you want me to do?" he asked.
"You know what I want, Rusty, and we both know you wont' do it."
He shuddered slightly, "Isn't there anything else?"
Ashley shook her head. "Not really..."
"So I-I'm stuck here?" he whispered.
Ashley nodded. "Til you're done cleaning." She glanced around. "Looks like you still have plenty to do."
He whimpered softly.
Ashley smirked. "Bye bye, Rusty."

"Why 're you doing this to me?" he asked.
"Cause."
"Not a good answer..."
"That's all you get."
"but-"
"But what?"
"But...you wouldn't' let me get away with an answer like that."
"I know."
"And...?" he trailed off expectantly.
"And I can get away with it, because I own you for two more days, or until you get this basement done."
He gasped.
Ashley smirked and headed for the stairs again.
Rusty whined softly and looked up at Buffy.
Ashley glanced warningly back at her friend.

Buffy reached down and hugged Rusty.
"Buffy..."
"I'm coming," Buffy said. Rusty clung tightly to her.
"Rusty, let go of her."
"No," he pleaded.
Ashley stalked over to him. "Do you need another reminder across the face of who's in charge?"
He whimpered and let go of Buffy.
Ashley pulled Buffy back with her.
Buffy followed Ashley up the stairs.
Rusty waited until they were at the top of the stairs, "Greaseball." he said softly.
Ashley ignored him.
"Greaseball was the last one that said something like that to me," Rusty said.
"Good. I hope it hurt." Ashley slammed the door.
"It did..." Rusty said softly.

Ashley grabbed the key from Buffy and locked the lock securely with more noise than necessary.
Buffy skated over to the door, grabbing her coat.
"Where are you going?" Ashley asked softly.
"Out."
"Oh."
Buffy turned around, "What did you mean, that he wouldn't do the one thing that you wanted?"
Ashley shook her head.
"Tell me."
"No." Ashley headed for her room.
Buffy followed.
Ashley closed her door loudly.
Buffy opened the door.
Ashley glared at her.
Buffy took in the scene of the room.
Ashley sat down on her bed, pulling her pillow to her chest.
"Hmm." Buffy said thoughtfully.
"What?"
Buffy skated over and touched the headboard, which had a few soot marks.
Ashley ignored her.
Buffy turned and skated out of the room.
Ashley closed the door after her.

Buffy left the house, and strode down the rails.
Ashley lay on her bed, crying.

Down in the basement, Rusty coughed, choking on the dust.
Ashley ignored the sounds from the basement.
He gave a box a shove, which collided with the wall with a satisfying crash.
"You better not be breaking things down there!" Ashley yelled, pouring herself some iced tea.
"How would you tell the difference?" he started to retort, but coughed again.
Ashley ignored him, sitting down at the table with a plate of cookies and her ice tea.
Rusty sat down and panted, water level low again.
Ashley nibbled at her cookies.
Silence fell again.
Ashley sighed softly.
There was a thump and then silence.
Ashley ignored him.
Rusty closed his eyes, resigned to his fate now and he started to shut down.
Ashley scraped her chair as she headed to put away her dishes.

"A-Ashley?" he called.
Ashley paused. "What?" she snapped.
"Water?" he pleaded.
Ashley groaned. "Why?"
"Empty..."
Ashley hissed and grabbed a glass, filling it up with water from the sink.
Rusty closed his eyes, she wasn't going to help him...
Ashley unlocked the basement door and stormed down them,
He didn't move.
Ashley stalked over to him and held out the glass. "Here."
He didn't move more a minute and then struggled to sit up.
Ashley held out the water.
He slowly moved towards her to take it.
Ashley stayed still and waited for him to take it.
He took the glass from her, his fingers brushing up against hers.
Ashley let him have the glass, her fingers tingling where he had touched her.

Rusty gratefully drank the water.
Ashley glared down at him.
He shrank under her.
"Better?" she growled.
He nodded meekly.
"Good." Ashley seized the glass and headed for the stairs.
"Thank you..." he said softly.
Ashley paused and turned to him with fiery eyes.

"Sorry..." he said automatically.
"For what?"
"I dunno..."
"Very smart," Ashley mocked.
"For existing..."
"Oh, we're getting that low?"
"Dunno what else to apologize for..."
Ashley smirked. "Well, I suppose that's good, that you acknowledge how low you are."
He didn't answer.
Ashley leaned against the wall by the stairs.

"Ashley?" he asked.
"What?"
"I'm sorry."
"No you're not."
"Yes I am. I'm sorry that I decided to be nice and try to comfort you..."
Ashley glared.
He didn't notice.
Ashley looked away. "Why did you?"
"What?"
"Why did you comfort me?"
"Because... we're - were- friends... that's what friends do."
"But we're not friends anymore, I see..."

"Guess so..." he said sadly.
"Why are you sad?"
"Because."
"Why?"
"Because."
"That's not an answer."
"Well it's all you'll get," he said.
Ashley glared and headed for the stairs again.
"I miss it."
Ashley paused. "Miss what?"
"Being friends."
Ashley felt tears in her eyes, but she forced them back.
Rusty got up slowly.
Ashley took a deep breath.
He moved over to one of the tables.

Ashley turned to him. "We can't be friends, Rusty. I... You... You hurt me too much..."
"What about me?"
Ashley looked away.
Rusty started brushing dust off the table, "You know perfectly well why I did what I did."
"Yeah..."
"Because you wouldn't stop otherwise."
"You don't have to be such a baby, Rusty."
"I thought it was established that I was one." he said.
Ashley rolled her eyes. "Rusty, you know I loved you, and you told me you loved me."
"You have an engine!"
Ashley bit her lip. "Rusty..."
He turned away from her.
Ashley looked up at him with hurt eyes.
He didn't turn around.

Ashley sat down on the bottom step. "I shoulda jumped."
"No."
"Yes."
"No."
Ashley ignored him, laying her face on her knees.
He rolled over and sat down next to her.
Ashley ignored him.
"How did this happen?" he asked.
Ashley sniffed softly.
"I mean, I'm the one that's locked in a basement..."
Ashley looked away from him.
"So why are you upset?"
Ashley shrugged.
Rusty sighed and leaned back.

Ashley stood up. "I don't deserve you."
"No, but you own me anyway."
"Owning you and deserving you are two different things, Rusty."
He shrugged, "Well there we are."
Ashley leaned heavily against the banister. "Why do I want you so much, Rusty? I know I have an engine..."
"I don't know."
Ashley sniffed softly and swiped at her eyes with the back of her hand.
Rusty stood up slowly.
Ashley whimpered softly.
He didn't notice, going back into the middle of the mess.
Ashley's wheels wobbled under her, and she collapsed down on the stairs with a cry of sorrow.

Rusty looked over at her and slid over to her, kneeling on the floor in front of her.
Ashley sobbed into the stairs, curling into a heap.
"no," Rusty said gently, pulled her head up.
Ashley sniffed and buried her face in her hands so he wouldn't see her cry.
without really thinking about it, Rusty leaned over to give her a hug.
Ashley wiggled out of his arms.
"Sorry," he said automatically.
Ashley shook her head and continued to cry.
He hugged her again.
Ashley didn't move this time.

"Don't cry," he said softly.
Ashley whimpered softly. "Rusty..."
"Don't cry," he said again.
Ashley whimpered softer and looked up at his face with teary eyes.
"Don't cry," he said once again.
Ashley sniffed softly and curled against him, hugging him tightly.
"Better?" he asked.
"Rusty, why are you holding me?" Ashley asked softly.
"Because you were crying..."
"Oh..."
He pulled away from her.
Ashley pulled away too, curling up on the stairs. "Rusty, I..."
"You okay now?" he asked.
Ashley sniffed and nodded once.
Rusty smiled and got up.

Ashley held out her hand to him. "Rusty..."
"Yeah?"
"Rusty, I..."
He waited.
"I... I don't..." Ashley had no idea what she was trying to say, but she felt something needed to be said.
"It's okay," he said gently.
Ashley shook her head. "No, it... it's not..."
"Yes."
Ashley broke down in tears again.
"No," he said with a sigh.
Ashley sobbed into the stairs.
Rusty moved over to her and gathered her in his arms again.
Ashley pulled out of his arms. "Rusty, no..."
"Oh," he backed away, "Okay."
"E... Every time you hold me, I just want you more, and... and then I scare you..."
"Yeah," he said.
"So... so you shouldn't hold me..."
"Okay."
"I mean... I... I want you to, but..."
"It's okay. I won't."
Ashley sniffed softly. "Rusty..."
"I'll just...go back to work."
Ashley shook her head. "No..."
"No?"

Ashley stood up shakily and headed up the stairs, reaching back with her hand for Rusty to follow her.
Rusty obediently followed.
Ashley led the way up the stairs.
He followed, uncertainly.
Once they were both up the stairs, Ashley closed the basement door.
He looked at her, puzzled.
"You don't have to clean the basement anymore."
"Oh. Thank you," he said gratefully.
Ashley nodded and headed for her room.
"Wait-"
Ashley paused.
"What d'you want me to do?" he asked.
"I don't care." Ashley skated into her room but left the door open.
"Oh," he sat down on one of the kitchen chairs.
Ashley laid her face on her pillow.
Rusty groaned softly as he rubbed on of his arms.
Ashley sighed softly, then started to cry.

He started towards the bathroom, and then paused when he heard her crying.
Ashley hugged her pillow close to her face.
"don't do that," he said from the doorway.
Ashley ignored him.
"Don't do that," he said louder, "If you hold it too close to your face you won't be able to breathe."
Ashley sighed softly and let go of her pillow, but she still cried.
"I know from experience," he said.
Ashley curled into a ball.
"Can I use your phone?" he asked.
Ashley nodded slowly, not looking at him.
"Thanks..." he rolled away.
Ashley closed her eyes, her back to the door.

Rusty rolled out into the kitchen and called home.
Ashley drifted into a half-sleep state.

Several minutes later, there was a knock at the door.
Ashley ignored it.
Rusty opened the door and let Belle in.
Ashley whimpered softly, curling closer to her pillow in her half-sleep state.
Rusty darted into Belle's arms and she just held him for a minute.
Ashley whined.
They both heard her and Belle skated into Ashley's room.

Ashley was shivering in her sleep.
Belle sat down next to her.
Ashley shifted uneasily as she felt a shadow over her.
Belle silently sat there.
Ashley whimpered softly and struggled against the shadow.
The sleeper didn't move.
Ashley rolled over and came nose to knee with Belle. She whimpered and opened her eyes.
Belle moved slightly so Ashley wouldn't collide with her.

Ashley sat up. "B... Belle?"
"Hi there," Belle said softly.
"Wh... what are you doing here?"
"I got a phone call," she said softly.
"F... From who?"
"From Rusty," Belle said, shifting Ashley gently.
"Oh..."
Belle eased Ashley back down on to the bed.
Ashley lay back down.
The sleeper gently tucked Ashley in.
Ashley struggled to sit back up. "I don't..."
"What is it honey?" Belle asked.
"I don't need to sleep..."
"Alright," Belle said.
Ashley pushed the blankets away.
Belle let her.
Ashley looked around. "Where's Rusty?"
"In the living room."
"What's he doing?"
"Sitting on the couch."
"Oh..."
Belle nodded.
"Why did he call you?"
"Because," she said softly, "He needed some help."
"With what?"
"He didn't tell me over the phone," Belle said, "He just asked that I come over."
"Oh..."
"And that I should talk to you."
"Oh," Ashley said softer.
Belle nodded.
Ashley looked down at her lap.
"So here I am."
Ashley nodded.

"Did you want to talk to me or should I?"
Ashley shrugged one shoulder.
Belle waited.
Ashley looked away from her.
"I guess that means that I talk..." Belle said.
Ashley nodded.
"Well then. I suppose that it can get a bit strange spending so much time with an engine, especially one that's a sweetheart like Rusty."
Ashley nodded.
"I'm right huh?" Belle said.
Ashley nodded again.
"And since your own engine spends so much time away from you..."
Ashley nodded again, tears stinging her eyes.
"Which creates a problem for you," Belle said.
"Yeah," Ashley said softly.
"A large one."
Ashley nodded bitterly.
"And when it came back to haunt you..."
Ashley bit her lip.
"You didn't know what to do."
Ashley burst into tears.
Belle reached out and hugged Ashley.
Ashley curled into her arms.
"It's okay to cry," Belle soothed.
Ashley hugged the sleeper tightly and rested her face on Belle's soft chest.
Belle held Ashley while she cried.
Ashley finally stopped crying and just sat still.
Belle silently still held her.
Ashley sighed softly.
Belle still didn't say a word.

Ashley looked up at her. "Is Rusty mad at me?"
"No honey, but he is worried about you."
"Rusty is worried about me?"
She nodded, "That's why he called me."
Ashley sniffed. "Why should he care about me after everything I did to him?"
"I don't know," Belle answered.
Ashley whimpered softly.
"But he does."
"Really?"
She nodded, "That's why he called me."
Ashley smiled weakly.
Belle smiled back.
Ashley sighed softly. "I... I don't want to hurt him..."
"I bet he knows that," Belle said.
"I'm sure he doesn't think it though."
"No?" Belle asked softly.
Ashley shook her head.
"Why do you say that?" Belle asked.
"Cause of the way I've treated him."
"Oh I see," Belle said.
Ashley sniffed.
Belle rocked Ashley gently.
Ashley cuddled into her arms.

"There now," Belle said, "Don't worry."
Ashley sniffed.
"You'll just make it worse if you worry," Belle said.
"I... I know..."
She nodded, "and it won't help matters either."
"I know."
Belle nodded approvingly.
Ashley sighed. "It... it's just so hard when I can't be with Bobo all the time, and... and Rusty, he... he's so nice and sweet..."
Belle nodded again.
Ashley sighed softly.
"It makes sense..." Belle started.
"It does?" Ashley asked softly.
She nodded, "but Ashley, honey..."
"What?"
"You can't force him."
"I know that now..."
She nodded, "If he's not ready, he's not."
Ashley sniffed softly.
Belle leaned back, "But..." she trailed off.
"What?"

"Lately, Poppa has been thinking that there may be too much work around here for the engines here to handle..." Belle started.
"Oh," Ashley said softly.
"And, he was thinking of requesting an engine to transfer here from another trainyard..."
"Was he?"
Belle nodded, "Do you have any suggestions?"
Ashley bit her lip.
"Although, he can't stay in your house..."
"Well, Rusty only has two more days left here..."
"No," Belle said softly, "Even considering that Rusty's been here..."
"Oh." Ashley looked down at her lap again.
"Actually, we were thinking of a certain engine here on an exchange program..." Belle said.
Ashley looked up hopefully.
"Anyone in particular that you can think of?" Belle asked with a smile.
"Bobo?" Ashley whispered hopefully.
Belle smiled.
Ashley smiled back.
"So Bobo then?" Belle said just a bit teasingly.
Ashley giggled softly. "Could he?"
Belle nodded, "We'll try."
Ashley smiled, her eyes shining.
Belle smiled back and stood up.

Ashley brushed a hand over her skirt. "Belle, is... is Rusty mad at me?"
Belle shook her head.
Ashley swallowed and nodded, heading for the living room.
Rusty was dozing on the couch.

Ashley slowly sidled in and perched down on the end of the couch.
As he was half-asleep, Rusty didn't notice her.
Ashley sat silently a moment. "Rusty?"
He blinked and woke himself up, "wha?"
"Hi."
He sat up, rubbing his eyes, "Hi."
"Sleep well?"
He nodded.
"Good..." Ashley looked down at her folded hands.
"Yeah," Rusty stretched, "I think I'm getting used to your couch," he joked.

Ashley smiled softly. "Rusty, I..."
He looked over at her.
"I..." She looked up into his pretty eyes. "Thanks for... for calling Belle."
He nodded.
"Can... can you ever forgive me?"
Rusty slowly nodded again.
"You can?"
He nodded again.
Ashley smiled gratefully. "Thanks. I... I was just so... so upset..."
"I know."
Ashley sniffed and looked up at him again. "And... I... I really did like you, Rusty..."
He looked away.
Ashley looked away too. "I mean... I've gotten to know you a lot better... And... and you're really sweet..."
"Ashley?" he asked.
"Yes?"
"I want to...can we be friends still?"
Ashley looked up at him. "You... you still want to be friends with me?"
He nodded.
Ashley smiled. "I... I'd like that."
"So would I."
Ashley smiled. "Thanks."
He smiled back at her.

Ashley ran her hand over her skirt. "Rusty, did Belle tell you the news?"
He shook his head.
"They're going to bring another engine to the yard."
"Oh?" Rusty asked.
Ashley nodded.
"That's...nice."
Ashley nodded.
Rusty leaned back.
Ashley pulled her legs under her.
"Well..." Rusty started to get up.
"Where you going?"
"Um..." he couldn't think of anything.
Ashley smiled shyly at him. "You can stay."
"okay, but I was going to..." he pointed over to the kitchen.
"Oh, okay."
"Yeah," Rusty moved over to the kitchen door.
Ashley sat on the couch silently.

In the kitchen, Rusty rubbed his eyes a few times before searching for something to eat.
Ashley lay down on the couch.
Belle emerged from Ashley's room, "You okay?" she asked Ashley.
Ashley nodded slowly. "Yeah."
Belle smiled, "good, I gotta get home."
Ashley nodded. "Okay."
"Where's Rusty?" she asked.
"In the kitchen."
Belle nodded and headed towards the kitchen.
Rusty silently moved over to her and into her arms again.

At just that moment, Buffy, having cooled off, walked in the front door.
Ashley closed her eyes and curled up on her couch.
"Ashley?" Buffy asked.
"Hmm?"
"How's it going?" Buffy asked carefully.
"Fine."
"You sure? I mean...with...everything?"
Ashley nodded. "I let him out."
Buffy smiled, "good."
Ashley nodded. "Belle's in the kitchen."
"Oh, she came over?" Buffy said.
Ashley nodded.
"Good," Buffy said.
"Yeah. I think Rusty's with her."
"Ah, okay," Buffy said, sitting down.
Ashley nodded.

"Look... I'm sorry about...getting upset," Buffy said.
Ashley shook her head. "It's not your fault, Buffy."
Buffy nodded, "All the same..."
Ashley shook her head. "I deserved it."
Buffy didn't answer.
Ashley smiled weakly. "See?"
Buffy grinned, "Well then."
Ashley smiled. "I... I think we're both okay now."
"Good," Buffy said.
Ashley nodded.
"Bye girls!" Belle called from the kitchen as she left.
"Bye Belle. Thanks!"