Carmen had offered to drive up to Malibu to meet Helena for drinks.  She didn’t want to risk running into a particular party at any of the familiar haunts around WeHo.  Even though Shane had disappeared and no one knew of her whereabouts, Carmen could not risk a public confrontation.  She knew she had a fiery temper and that she was likely to erupt into a tirade at the sight of her former lover.  She’d only end up embarrassing herself and thought it best not to tempt fate.  Besides, a leisurely drive up the PCH on this balmy afternoon might help her clear her mind.

Helena had suggested The Blue Lounge at Moonshadows on the beach.  They could enjoy their cocktails while watching the sunset over the Pacific.  The two women could enjoy the much need serenity that such an atmosphere could provide.

When Carmen entered the lounge, she spotted Helena seated at a table near the window.  Since it was late afternoon, the lounge and deck remained sparsely populated.  She ordered a drink at the bar and made her way over to Helena.  She placed her hand gently on her back.  Helena started and then eased when she realized it was Carmen.  “Carmen…hey,” she acknowledged, drawing out her words.   She stood and the two shared a polite embrace. 

“I’m sorry.  I’d didn’t mean to startle you,” said Carmen.

“No, it’s ok.  I guess I was just lost in thought…as usual.”  The truth was that every time Helena looked out into the ocean, she was flooded with memories of the night she had shared with Dylan.  As much as it pained her to keep reliving those moments, the sea was like a magnet that kept luring her back.

The two sat down and after a few awkward beats, Helena chimed in.  “Carmen, thank you so much for meeting me.  I was going stir crazy all cooped up at home and I really needed to get out.”

“I know what you mean.  I’ve been staying with one of my sisters and her husband.  They have three kids running around which is exhausting.  My mom keeps stopping in, bringing food, trying to console me.  I was suffocating!”

Helena smiled wistfully at the differences between herself and Carmen.  While Carmen was complaining about too many people caring for her, Helena hadn’t a soul in the world to whom she could turn.