Ashley had already been making breakfast a half hour earlier that morning. Growing up on a farm similar to the one she currently lived in had given her plenty of experience making meals and getting up early every day.<br/><br/>Her grandmother taught her many things about cooking years ago. Breakfast was Ashley's favorite meal to make. Hash browns, eggs, meat, not that they had loads of it, she enjoyed the smell of the foods sizzling in skillets. Sometimes, like on days like today, she would go the extra mile for the people she loved.<br/><br/>"Morning Ryan," Ashley replied as he entered the room. "Made ya' pancakes today, figured you'd like a little extra something for your birthday." She handed him a plate with a good chunk of everything made for breakfast that day. After he took the plate and sat down she grabbed him a coup of orange juice and set it down next to him, making sure he had a paper towel as well.<br/><br/>Ryan was Ashley and Sara's practical child. Four years spent watching over Ryan had made him a part of the group. He was a good helping hand and never complained about having to work. The disappearance had made it easy for Ryan to realize that everyone has to pitch in for the three of them to survive.<br/><br/>Surviving on the farm was not too bad, the distance kept any robbers or bandits away. And the city was not too far to visit and get any boxed or canned supplies. In truth the hardest part of the disappearance was being alone. For Ashley it was not too terrible as Sara was with her. They had become very close in the four years, emotionally and intimately. But Ashley could not imagine how dull life for Ryan must seem. That is why Ashley and Sara always tried to get him exciting gifts, ones he could look forward to and pass the time.<br/><br/>As Ryan was getting older, Ashley and Sara had more difficulties coming up with ideas for Ryan's birthday. They had it easy for each other, simple pieces of comfort or sometimes a special night together. Ryan though was without any kids his age to talk to, girls to flirt with, and was not quite old enough to enjoy his Harley.