“Mum can we just go inside? I need to talk to you all and no Alice and I aren’t over I just had to sort some stuff out in my head.”

Sharon didn’t get a chance to reply as Dana led Alice past her and into the family home.

“Dana, Alice, to what to we owe the pleasure?” Howie joked as he and his father arrived in the hallway to see who their visitors were.

“Hey How, Dad. Erm can we sit down I need to talk to you”

Four hours later along with many tears and hugs Alice helped an exhausted Dana into the back of the Subaru for their journey home.  Spending the day breaking the news and then comforting her family and friends had taken it all out of them but especially Dana.

“Are you sure you don’t want to stay here tonight, it’ll be no trouble. You girls can still sleep in the same bed?” Sharon offered them although it was aimed more at Alice than Dana as she was already drifting to sleep in the back seat.  Alice turned and looked at Sharon, immediately understanding just how difficult that last comment had been for how and thought how much it proved she really loved Dana.

“Sharon, its nothing personal honest but I think we just want to go home, sleep in our own bed and spend a bit of time alone before you know.”

Sharon looked at the younger woman knowing that Alice cared very deeply for her daughter and would love and take care of her no matter what.

“I understand perfectly, she just looks so tired.”

“I know but she’s gonna be ok.”

“Don’t worry mom, I’m just a bit tired, been a long day. I’ll speak to you soon.” Dana mumbled from inside the car

Never one for public display’s of affection Sharon just smiled and took a step back from the car as Alice reversed and drove away into the night.

“Alice loves Dane mom, she’s gonna look after her.”

“I know son, I know.”

When the arrived back at Dana’s condo a few hours later, Dana was fast asleep, curled up in the back seat. Alice climbed into the back to help her out.