Chapter 16: Back to Reality

Two months had passed since Ashley started her senior year again, and it had been a struggle. She had been trying her best to keep up with her schoolwork, but it wasn't easy. The medication Erica had gotten for her helped, but it was a constant battle to stay focused and motivated. Erica had been a lifesaver, helping Ashley with her homework and studying with her every day. As they sat in the park, surrounded by trees and the warm sunshine, Erica handed Ashley a small bag. "Here, take your meds," she said, concern etched on her face. Ashley took the bag and opened it, revealing a small container with her medication inside. She popped a pill into her mouth and swallowed it down with a sip of water from her bottle. Erica smiled and put a hand on her shoulder. "You're going to do great on your test tomorrow, Ash," Erica said, trying to reassure her. Ashley sighed and rubbed her temples. She was stressed and distracted, her mind wandering to everything except the material she needed to study. Her short, blue hair shone in the sun, and she ran a hand through it, feeling a sense of restlessness. "Hey, Erica?" she said, looking at her friend with a mischievous glint in her eye. "Yeah?" Erica replied, raising an eyebrow. "If I pass this test, can I get a tattoo?" Ashley asked, a hopeful tone in her voice. Erica stood up, laughing. "What the hell?" she said, her eyes wide with surprise. Ashley grinned, feeling a sense of excitement. "I don't know, something small. Just to celebrate." Erica shook her head, smiling. "We'll see," she said, her voice teasing. Ashley pouted, but Erica just sat back down and pulled out their study materials. "Let's focus on the test first, okay?" she said, her eyes sparkling with amusement. Ashley nodded, feeling a sense of determination. She was going to pass this test, and then she would see about that tattoo. With Erica's help, she felt like she could conquer anything. As they studied, Erica quizzed Ashley on the material, and Ashley's confidence began to grow. She was going to do this, and she was going to celebrate in style. The thought of a tattoo was a fun distraction, but she knew she had to focus. With Erica by her side, she felt like she could face anything. The sun began to set, casting a warm glow over the park. Ashley and Erica packed up their things, feeling more prepared for the test ahead. As they walked home, Ashley felt a sense of hope and determination. She was going to pass this test, and she was going to make it through this year. And who knows, maybe she would even get that tattoo.