Avril hit the Power button and the TV blared to life. She changed the channel. It viewed a comedy talk show. She was going to meet her brother today. The brother everyone thought was dead. She hated every one in the show for laughing. Why were they enjoying life when she was stuck here? Didn't they have tensions? Why was it only her? Oh God.
"Avril, did you buy something good for yourself?"
Avril turned to face her Mom standing near the blue lounge sofa, a smile pasted on her face. Buy something? For what?
As if reading her mind, her Mom spoke, "Your Drama Party Avril, and you know, Robin Lough is actually coming!"
Oh right. The party. Her party for being the perfect Ophelia. She had completely forgotten about it, the Ashton stuff had ruined her focus on normal life.
Yesterday, Mr.Pennythistle had scolded her for not paying attention.
"I guess I have enough stuff in my closet." She muttered. She was in no mood of shopping. Not with Ashton stuck somewhere. She had to go and find them.
But weren't they supposed to meet Ashton that day? Of course, that won't take long. The party was at night.
"No honey, you are buying yourself something good. It's your party!" Her Mom forced. Why was she being so über-caring? Didn't she have to attend some important conference?
"Mom, I guess I'm really tired. There were loads of assignments this week and I had other stuff to do. I really am in no mood."
Her Mom pursed her lips. "Well, what if I get you something?"
Avril gave her Mom a smile. She was trying so hard. "I'll love it Mom."
Her Mom called out Courtney's name and when she didn't reply, she herself climbed upstairs.
Avril watched her Mom disappear. Poor Mom. She thought. She still thought her son was dead. It must be so hard for her.
Once again, her brain wandered to what might have happened to Ashton. What the hell was he doing there in Pennsylvania? Was he kidnapped? Had Tori Hastings kidnapped him? Was Tori alive? What was Ethan doing in Ohio? Why did Wren Cavanaugh confess? What about the picture the coos had of Med? She had talked to Madeline about it and Madeline was sure that was a photo shop. Who did it? And if there was no murderer at all, why were things still wrong?
Avril closed her eyes. She went upstairs and kicked open her bedroom door.
Her room was same as she had left it three nights before. Avril had been sleeping in the barn since. It was more peaceful and soothing. And felt like Ashton. Ashton had loved the barn.
He had forced Dad to let him set all his stuff up in the barn. He said it made him feel good. And easy. And of course, soothed his anxiety.

Did Ashton miss the barn?

Did he miss Mom and Dad?

And Courtney?

And Avril herself?

Did he miss their pet dog, Larry?

Of course he did.
Just like they missed him.
Avril went to her bed and closed her eyes. She kept repeating Hakuna Matata. But it brought no change.
How would she feel when she sees Ashton? Will his hair be a little more more ruffled, and rough? Will he have eye bags around his eyes? Will he have scars? Will his hair be a slight longer? Well, six months was a long time.

Again, she closed her eyes, and a picture appeared.
In all blue background, written in bold black was "I miss you desperately."
Avril smiled and drifted to sleep.