I almost say her name aloud then catch myself; she must have one ***** of a hangoverI should whisper. Dana? She snaps her head up to look at me then brings both hands up covering her face. She lets out an agonizing groan and crosses her arms on the table, laying her head down upon them. Ill make you some coffee, I keep my voice at the whisper. Dana moans in agreement.

I make the coffee and pour two cups. Setting her coffee in front of her I retrieve some aspirin and place it next to the mug. I sit down and tap her elbow, rousing her from her brief slumber.

Taking the mug and aspirin in hand she says, thanks.

Youre welcome, I reply.

Alice? Her voice is tired but melodic.

Yeah, I answer.

What am I gonna do about Tonya?

I dont know, I say, but well figure something out. If we have to get the whole gang together again, including Bette and Tinawell figure something out.

Thank you.

Youre welcome, my response is reflexive.

Nothank youfor everythingfor last night. Its a little fuzzy, but I remember most of what happened.

Youre welcome, I take a sip of my coffee trying to keep my composure. I want so much to just hold herto take her back into my bed and make love to her. Tonya deserves the worst punishment in the world for what shes doneand Im going to serve it to her. The phone rings snapping me out of my deliberation.

Hello, I say into the receiver.

Hi, that annoying voice rips through my ear before I hear the name, its Tonya. I still havent heard from Dana. Have you heard anything? Oh, *****! What am I going to tell her? Quick Alice, come up with something.

Uh, no, damn, that wasnt the right choice.

Im really starting to worry about her, I hear her voice close to the phone, but theres someone in the background. It sounds like a man, Honey, come back to bed. His words are muffled but understandable.

Uh, Tonya, listen, I think I remember she has a tennis match in Chicago this week. Thats probably where she is. She shuts out everyone when shes playing, so I wouldnt worry. Shell call when she either wins the whole thing or is eliminated. I speak the words as they pop into my head and turn to look at Dana. Her head is up focusing a steely glare in my direction. A match, she mouths. I shrug my shoulders before speaking to Tonya again, listen Tonya, I have to go.

Oh, okay, she doesnt sound as disappointed at Danas disappearance as I would be. Youll call me if you hear anything though?

Sure, I agree. Bye. I hang up the phone and resume my seat in front of Dana. We have GOT to do something about this Dana. Shes living at your place and you wont even go back there.

I knowI know, her reply, a familiar one, is simple and to the point.

To Be Continued