Alice admired the contrast of Kerry’s fair complexion to her jet-black hair. She also noticed the woman’s dark green eyes.

Not wanting the silence to get awkward, Kerry cleared her throat and began her usual dating ritual. “So I guess this is where I ask you to tell me about yourself.”

Alice grinned at the black haired woman, “Well lets see, I work for KCRW, I’ve lived in this area for most of my life, and my favorite ice cream is chocolate with big chunks of peanut butter in it. I think that about sums me up. Oh wait I’m a total romantic-comedy junky.”

Kerry laughed at the blonde, “ and may I ask what your favorite romantic-comedy is?”

“I’m not sure I know you well enough to disclose such private information.” Alice quickly glanced from her left to her right and then leaned in slowly. “But I think I’ll make an exception just this once.” Lowering her voice, so only Kerry could hear, Alice answered the question, “My Best Friends Wedding.”

“Julia Roberts doesn’t even get the guy at the end of that movie.”

Alice shook her head, “and that’s the beauty of the film. The whole time she’s chasing after this guy, because she swears she’s in love with him, but the truth is she’s just terrified of walking through life without that safety net their friendship had created. But in the end she realizes that she needs to open herself up and face the world without that reassurance, because that’s when you find true happiness.” Alice took a deep breath, “Oh and don’t forget the whole sing along with the lobster claws. I mean how can you go wrong with something like that.”

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Dana held Lara’s hand as they stepped into the restaurant. They were quietly discussing Dana’s new workout plan when the hostess interrupted, “How may I help you ladies tonight?”

Lara smiled politely, “I made a reservation for eight o’clock under the name Perkins.”

After going down the list of names the hostess asked Dana and Lara to follow her into the dinning area.

Dana was fumbling with the strap of her purse when she heard an all too familiar laugh. She stopped walking and quickly glanced around the restaurant. Within seconds her eyes discovered the back of Alice’s head. A large lump began to form in Dana’s throat and the thumping of her heart was soon the only sound she was able to hear.