Tonight should be interesting, then. If you two start throwing punches, Im stepping in. Bette nudged Tina on the shoulder. Nobody messes with my girl.

Tina had finished her ice cream, feeling rejuvenated. Im glad Im still your girl.

***

How do I look? Taylor stood as tall as she could.

Very handsome. Jenny hadnt considered the possibility that Taylor would want to wear a tux to the prom. She did look quite handsome, though. What would her friends say? Did she have any friends? People can be cruel, this Jenny was well aware of. She hoped that the other students would treat her with the respect she so well deserved. Why was she so sure that they wouldnt?

I cant believe Im actually going to wear this. I mean, I know Ill get ***** for it, but Ive always wanted to wear a tuxedo, and now that I have you to carry on my arm, I cant think of any thing that could compare.

Jenny was flattered. Taylor was young, but she was mature for her age. She knew things that most would take years to find out. She wondered what kinds of situations she had been in throughout her life to give her that knowledge.

You know, Taylor continued, if you dont really want to go, Ill completely understand. Taylor started to change back to her regular attire of baggy pants and navy blue sweatshirt. Her hair was unkempt and she desperately needed some sleep.

You look so tiredwhy dont you lie down for a while and Ill press your suit. Jenny lifted the sharp looking outfit up to the light.

Taylor caught a glimpse of herself in a windows reflection. God, I look like *****. I guess I really didnt sleep well last night.

Jenny had to agree. Or the previous five days, she added.

Okay, Im going to go take a nap.

You can use my bed. Its much more comfortable then the couch.

Taylor thanked her and headed to Jennys bedroom.

***

Alice, are you ready? Dana had finished packing and was ready to head home.

Am I ready? Alice thought. Ive never been more ready for anything in my entire life. Alice was so glad her misadventures were finally over. She was extremely proud of herself for roughing it out, and terribly embarrassed about the whole ice chest/bear incident. But she probably would never see those people again, at least she prayed she wouldnt. The fresh air and waterfall scenery was lovely for a change, but she just couldnt wait to get home to her cozy apartment and sleep in a real bed.

Okay, lets go. Dana grabbed their luggage and they headed to the airport.

Later in the cab

Honey? Alice turned to her lover. Thank you.

Dana was thrown by surprise. For what?

For taking me on this trip. I had a good time. Alice couldnt believe the words were actually leaving her own lips, but it was the truth. Spending time with Dana pretty much anywhere was a good time. She cared deeply for her. She was only afraid that Dana might not feel quite the same way. She wanted to ask her, but she thought it might scare her away.

I had a good time, too. Im so glad you came, Al. Youre my little trooper. Dana snuggled up to her and kissed her on the forehead.

And youre my big bad ***** tennis star.

***