And you told this to Tina?

Yes, she says through the tears. I couldnt lie to herI couldnt keep anything form her anymore. Now, she never wants to see me again.

Oh, my God. The words escape my lips before my mind has a chance to stop them, no wonder shes so devastated.

Shesthatbad? Her words trickle out like a slow stream as a look of terror replaces the sadness in her eyes.

Oh, Betteno, I didnt mean it that way.

Dont lie to me Alice. I did this to her. *****! I wish I could do right by her, but lately I just seem to keeping ***** up. Shes becoming angry with herself and starts pacing the room.

Maybe you should stay away for awhile, I suggest. She seems to get upset whenever she comes to see you.

That would be great Alice, but I cant stay away from her any more than I already am. You just said it yourselfshe keeps coming to see me. Maybe I should just move out of the house and go live somewhere else. Someplace she doesnt knowthen she wont visit me and get upset.

Bette, dont say that.

A ringing telephone interrupts my sentence.

Hello? Bettes composure quickly returns as she speaks with her caller. Are you busy?……Okay..Youre right, I need to see you.SureOkay. Ill see you in a bit. She hangs up the phone and turns to me. I have to go. You can stay here or not, but Im leaving for a while.

She grabs her coat and walks out the door, leaving me to lock it on my way out. As she gets in her car and drives off I slowly close the door making sure I hear it click shut. I meander down the walk to my own car and drive hometo a devastated Tinaand a hangover Dana. I walk my apartment and notice Tinas door is closed. Walking past I hear her crying from withinmy heart sinks in my own despair for her. I continue down the hall and into the kitchen. Dana is seated at the table with her head in her handsan empty coffee cup sits in front of her.