Helena sighed a deep sigh of empathy remembering the look on Carmen’s face when she got the news that Shane had bailed.  The events following that evening had seemed like a blur and Helena couldn’t recall seeing Carmen after that.

Helena rose from the chaise to make her way inside.  She couldn’t delay it any longer.  She needed to start looking for a new place.  She certainly couldn’t afford the beach house anymore.  Once inside, she heard the house phone ring but couldn’t find the cordless.  Just as she reached it, the ringing stopped.  She was about to turn away when it rang again.  She answered immediately.

“Helena Peabody.”

“Helena!  It’s Carmen!”  The voice on the other end spoke breathlessly.  Before she could respond, Carmen began speaking rapidly.  “Oh my God, Helena!  I just went over to Shane’s to pick up some of my stuff and Jenny told me what happened!  I’m so sorry Helena.  I feel partially responsible.  Don’t you worry.  I’m gonna try to help you in whatever way I can.   I mean, I don’t know what I could possibly do, but— “

“Carmen.  Sweetheart.  Slow down.  What on Earth are you talking about?”

“Oh, God.   I’m sorry.  Jenny told me about your mother cutting you off.  I mean, I know that your quite well off yourself, but I’m still gonna pay you back for everything you did for me and my family, and well…Shane.”

Helena was overwhelmed with Carmen’s offer.  Her heart went out to her.  She felt that if anyone could understand Carmen’s situation, it was herself.  “Carmen, I appreciate the gesture, but what I did for you was a gift and I don’t expect to be repaid.  I’m just so sorry for your sake that it didn’t work out as planned.  How are you holding up?”

There was a long pause and a deep sigh on the other end.  “To be honest, I’m not doing too well.  But look, I don’t want to burden you with this.  I—“

“Nonsense,” Helena cut her off.  “Listen, do you want to meet for coffee or something?   I don’t know about you, but I could really use the company.”  Helena held her breath hoping Carmen would agree.  She hadn’t had human contact for days and felt that Carmen would be just the person she needed with whom to commiserate.

“I’d love to meet you Helena.  But I don’t think coffee’s gonna cut it.  We’re going out for a drink!”

Helena smiled.  Finally she had something to look forward to.