Previously –

Alice wrapped her arms around Dana’s waist while Dana rubbed Alice’s cheek with one hand and her back with the other.  Neither spoke, they just held each other as they cried, trying to wrap their thoughts around everything Alice just confessed.      

Chapter 17 –

Shane wiped her remaining tears away as she silently watched Alice and Dana.  She didn’t know what to say or do.  Alice had definitely changed over the past 6 months.  She was no longer taking medication and she had taken responsibility for her actions.  Too much responsibility apparently, Shane thought.  Alice had put her feelings and worries aside to be there for Dana and take care of her.  Shane was proud of Alice for everything she had done, but she had no idea Alice felt so guilty for everything.  Shane knew Alice and Dana still had a lot to talk about, but she was glad Alice finally opened up to Dana.  Maybe that was what they needed to be able to talk about everything and work out their problems. 

Shane was pulled from her thoughts when she heard foot steps and looked up to see Kit standing in the doorway.  Shane quietly stood and backed Kit back into the hallway.  Shane stepped into the hall behind Kit and was surprised to see Bette and Angelica.  “Hey!”

“Hi Shane.  I brought dinner and a bundle of joy came free with delivery.”  Kit said with a smile.

Shane gave Bette a hug then squatted down to say hi to Angelica who was in her stroller.

Bette was beginning to wonder why they were out in the hall and concern instantly took over.  “What’s wrong?  Why are we standing in the hall?”

“Why are Dana and Alice crying?”  Kit had seen Dana and Alice comforting each other when Shane backed her out of the room.

Shane knew she needed to say something to calm Bette and Kit’s fears but she didn’t want to say too much.  It was Alice and Dana’s choice to disclose the details of their conversation, not hers.  “Alice told Dana some heavy shit that caused both of them to become emotional.  Just give them a few minutes and they will be okay.”

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“Ssshhh, its okay Alice. It’s not your fault.  Please quit blaming yourself.”  Dana continued to comfort a hysteric Alice.  The guilt had been building for so long with no release and Alice couldn’t control the tears.