Shane and Dana had been talking all morning about the events of the previous night and neither one had realised the hours that they had passed in each others company. Dana was exactly what Shane needed to feel better. She listened intently and barely said a thing while Shane spoke. She gave Shane just the type of support she needed and when Shane had finished explaining her situation Dana only said a few things which were exactly what Shane needed to hear.

Im so sorry Shane. I had no idea what you were going through but you got to be strong yknow? You have to realise that your relationship with Cherie has shown you what you are capable of. How much you can actually love – that you are capable of being in love and being in a relationship. This might not be what you want or need to hear right now, but maybe this is what you needed all along. To realise how much you can actually love a person and let go of all inhibitions.

On hearing Danas words Shane knew that these were things she already knew yet refused to accept. I know I can love. I just cant handle the pain that comes with it.

Why is it so hard?

I dont think anyone can answer that question Shane, least of all me. But it is hard. I dont think real love ever comes easy. Sometimes it could be right in front of you the entire time and you dont even know it till it reaches out and slaps you in the face. *****, I should know.

Shane had so many questions yet she knew the answers to her questions. However, Danas last comment slightly puzzled her and although Shane didnt usually pry she felt that Dana really needed to talk about something.

What do you mean?

Huh?

Dude, what do you mean you should know?

The next hour or so was spent with Dana filling in Shane about the her nights turn of events with Alice. When Dana was done explaining the kiss all Shane could do was stare at Dana with a look of utter amusement on her face.

What Shane? Whats that look for?

What look?

Dana just looked at Shane and raised an eyebrow.

Oh Dane. Man, I should have known.

Shouldve couldve wouldve, doesnt matter! What do I do? Im in so much *****. I dont know what to do. Alice is. But Tonya Im so confused.

Dude, relax. Its quite simple. Do you love her?

I dunno Shane. I mean Tonyas great and all but Dana stared blankly ahead of her but I guess I just dont know. I mean she was there for me and shes always around and.

Dana calm downokay? I meant do you love Alice?

Of course I love Alice. Shes my best friend. Its just that after yesterday I just

Her voice trailed off and her face grew more intense as she intently looked outside the window, causing Shane to turn around just in time to see Alices Mini pull up outside. Shane turned back around only to see what should have been obvious before and smiled. Dana was in love.

The lust in Danas eyes could not be hidden, and neither could the smile on her face. Shane leant in to slightly touch Danas hand before excusing herself and making her way to the counter where Marina had just served a cute red head. She was almost at the counter when she just stopped, turned around and walked out of the planet and got in her truck.

Enoughs enough Shane, Danas right. I got to stop letting the fear of hurt rule my life.

With that she started the ignition and, being unaware of what had transpired last night made her way to Bette & Tinas place.