The Puppet Master

Ashley's eyes flicked open in the hazy pink room. It was foggier than normal. Yet another indicator of how little time Lizzie had left. He took a deep breath and steeled himself for what was most likely his last visit.
"Elizabeth?" he asked softly, his now bare feet mingling with the soft carpet fibres as he wandered calmly towards the armchair.
"Ashley?" she croaked.
"Hey, Lizzie. Cup of tea?" he said plopping onto a cream pouffe near the low table, upon which sat a china teapot.
"Yes please." She smiled.
Milk and two sugars. The same for him. Biscuits.
She smiled and accepted the tea.
"Don't the daffodils look wonderful, Ashley?" she murmured.
He looked out the window. It was snowing. No daffodils.
He closed his eyes momentarily and saw himself breathing away the snow then breathing the daffodils to the surface as he breathed in. He opened his eyes and smiled at his work.
"Liz, you know you're short on tIme." He whispered. She looked at him through clear eyes.
"Yes."
"I won't be able to see you for much longer."
"How much longer do you think I have?"
"A month, before your mind deteriorates too much for you to dream stably enough for me to see you."
"I have a request."
"Anything."
She handed him a photo from the side table. A girl about 14, laughing whilst her raven hair blew across her face, her bare arms outstretched.
"This is my granddaughter, Emilie. She doesn't look like that anymore, she's 16 now. That photo is 3 years old. Point is, she has depression, and she needs someone."
Ashley looked up from his seat.
"You want me to find her?"
She nodded.
He kissed her forehead and began to leave.
"Ash,come back when you find her, after that, I never wish to see you."
He nodded, understanding her desire to protect him.

Emilie Brighton. He didn't even consider swapping into other people's heads anymore.
He opened his eyes. Darkness.
"Emilie!?" His voice echoed.
Nothing.
Then it clicked.
But.... that's impossible.
It can't be.... not after all these years.

It took Ashley 10 minutes to explain his theory back in the home dimension. When he was done, all jaws hit the floor.
Then conversation erupted.
"Quiet." Andy whispered. The chatter ended.
Jinxx looked like he was considering something.
"You're sure?" Andy asked, placing a hand on Ashley's shoulder.
"Positive. Same as when I tried on CC."
"Well, should we look for Emilie?" Jinxx asked.
"No". Ashley whispered. "If Emilie is as smart as I think, then she'll come to us within the week."
"So, we aren't the only Flitters? Definitely?" CC whispered with hope in his eyes.
"I don't think so." Ash whispered.

Notes

-TheBunnyRegimeQueen