Family Troubles || Redlyn

Befriending

Ashlyn's POV

Madeline and I got paired up for an assignment. I was more confused than upset, because she was still trying to befriend me. I hold strong regrets, but then again... she was Big Red's cousin.

"I guess we should get started." I forced a smile.

"Yeah, sure."

"Okay, so..."

"I'm sorry again, Ashlyn, I messed up." She apologized.

"Forgiven... but, um, how did you realize?" I asked. Her recent behavior seemed so sudden. "That you messed up?"

"After Jackson and I broke up, I think some sense just got knocked into me." She made a small shrug.

"Well... I do want us to be on good terms, after all we're both gonna be in Big Red's life awhile."

"Yeah... I hope he forgives me. But either way, we can... you know, be friends." She sad, starting out sadly. "If you forgive me."

"I'll definitely try." I nodded, feeling sympathetic. "Alright, we should started."

"Hey babe." I pecked my boyfriend's lips, as he joined me by sitting down on my bed.

"Hey lovely." He put his arms around my waist, pulling me over. I bit my lip, flushing by the nickname.

"What's that for?"

"Trying something new... did you not like it? Did it make you uncomfortable, I can totally stop—"

"I loved it." I kissed him passionately. "I love you."

"Love you too." He beamed.

"How are you?" I asked, leaning onto his shoulder. I winced.

"You okay?" His face immediately fell.

"I'm fine, I promise." I nodded, sitting up to avoid my bruised arm hitting his. "It only hurts a little."

"I still can't believe—"

"Me neither."

"Well, besides that... how are you?"

"I'm good, and you never answered."

"Oh, yeah." He nodded. "I'm good too." He smiled.

"Good. Also... Madeline still wants to be my friend."

"Alright..."

"And I think I'm gonna give her a chance."

"If that feels best, go for it." He hugged me from behind.

"She wants you to forgive her too."

"Um..."

"I don't think you have to." Still facing forward, I put my hand on his cheek and turned my head to kiss him. "Give it the time you need, not me."

"Okay. I don't really trust her."

"That's alright." I smiled at him.