Weeks passed and the change in Marina was astounding. She smiled and laughed readily and joined her friends for more social events than she used to. They all knew it was because of her budding relationship with the archeologist. Marina would talk constantly about the woman and what they had discussed in their conversations. When Cecilia was in the field and couldnt use her cell phone, she wrote beautiful letters about what she was doing and how she felt about Marina. She and Cecilia had begun to write to each other on a daily basis and the more they learned about each other, the more enamored they became. Today, the mailman didnt deliver a letter for her and Marina sat down with her friends looking disappointed and worried.

Wow thats a face we havent seen in a while. You OK? Tina questioned as she handed Bette a part of the newspaper she had been reading.

Im fine.

Are you sure? Dana questioned. They were all getting used to this new Marina who had begun to open up to them in ways they didnt think was possible. Everyone agreed that the change suited her and made them like their enigmatic friend even more.

No Marina said looking down at the table.

So then whats up? Shane asked looking at her friend with concern.

I I told Cecilia about Francesca in a letter a little while ago. And I didnt get a letter from her today. The way these letters come, the one for today should have been mailed soon after she received the one about Francesca.

Im sure theres nothing to worry about. Cecilia is a smart girl shell know whats up and that Francesca is well whatever she is, Alice said rubbing Marinas back. Maybe she just didnt have time to mail it or maybe the post office is running late. You never know about these things. Besides CiCis in love with you. All but Marina had picked up on Cecilias nickname. Marina still liked the way Cecilia rolled off her tongue and refused to use the other.

She smiled half heartedly at Alices comments. We havent exactly said that to each other you know.

Well its obvious to us that she does. Itll be OK, Dana said, reaching out to pat Marinas hand on the table.