A chorus of snickers fills the foyer.

Tina narrows her eyes, looking around at the amused faces. “I did drop it… it wasn’t some ploy, and I really wish you guys would stop insinuating otherwise …”

The laughter only grows louder.

Tina turns to Bette, who presses her lips together in an obvious attempt to contain her laughter.

Tina playfully swats her arm. “Baby…”

Bette laughs and immediately holds up her hands in surrender. “I didn’t say anything…”

Tina rolls her eyes, although the reluctant smirk tugging at her lips betrays her amusement. She releases Bette and returns to unpacking, shaking her head at the ridiculousness of their friends.

A few moments later, the front door opens again. Kit steps inside, carrying a large takeout bag from The Planet, and smiles as she surveys the lively scene. “Knock knock…”

Bette looks up, immediately smiling at the sight of her sister. “Hey, I was just wondering where you were. I thought you were coming earlier…”

Kit nods, shifting the bag in her arms. “Yeah, I had something come up at The Planet, so I just decided to bring lunch for everybody…”

Tina walks over and greets Kit with a grateful kiss on the cheek. “Thank you so much, you’re the best…”

Kit waves away the praise. “No big deal, just some sandwiches and salads…”

Bette sets aside the packing paper and approaches her sister. “Come on, I’ll help you unpack the lunch.”

The two women head toward the kitchen, their voices fading into the adjoining room.

At the same time, Lara emerges and approaches the small table near the foyer, where she gathers her purse and other belongings.

Tina notices and offers her a gentle smile. “Are you heading out?”

Lara nods, adjusting her bag strap. “Yeah, a few of my friends are taking me out tonight, so I have some things to do beforehand…”

Across the foyer, Dana lifts her head at the mention of Lara’s plans. She watches her for a moment but says nothing.

Tina walks over and pulls Lara into a warm hug. “Well, thank you so much for all your help…”

Lara smiles faintly and returns the embrace. “No problem…”

When they separate, Lara glances around the room and gives a casual wave. “See you guys later…”