Jesus, Alice, you had us scared to death, Bette murmured, crossing to Alices side, her relief exposing the underlying worry shed hidden.

Alice grinned somberly. Weve had enough tragedy tonight. So, Ive been elected to call Danas parents, gathering from what Ive overheard?

Tina nodded. I hope you dont mind. You should let them know that no one is being allowed to see her tonight. Everyone has to wait until the morning.

Alice frowned. What time?

Visiting hours start at nine, Bette offered.

Alice jumped up suddenly from her cot, nearly tipping it over. Damn, I cant wait that long. I need to see Dana now. Shes like a sister to me, and I just need to see her so that I know shes all right. She paused, biting her lip. You know, no matter what the doctor says, I have a hard time believing it. Its like Im just going to go in there and it wont be true. Either that, or I need to see her and make sure shes really okay.

Shane draped a loose arm around her waist. Al, we understand. Were having the same thoughts. For lack of better words, the situation sucks.

Should we call Lara? Bette asked.

Alice hesitated. They just broke up, so Im not sure. And I mean just broke up, as in days ago.

If she loves Dana, shell want to know, Tina prompted gently.

Maybe we should wait until we talk to Dana first and then see if we should call Lara, Shane interjected practically.

Alice had her cell phone in her hand and was biting softly on the antenna. All right, Alice, you can do this. You may not like Danas parents, but you have to tell them. God, this sucks, she was muttering to herself as her top teeth tapped against the phones antenna. She turned to the others abruptly. Wish me luck. Having said that, she found the nearest exit and stepped outside, standing just near the door as she took a deep breath and dialed the Fairbanks number.

It was picked up on the third ring. Hello, Sharon? Alice began carefully. Hi, its Alice. Yes, hi, its nice to talk to you, too. Im doing fine. Oh, my boyfriend? Hes fine, as well. Alice supposed that last bit wasnt a lie, exactly. She was sure Lisa was doing fine, even if he was no longer technically her boyfriend. Anyway, Sharon, Im calling with some bad news. Um…Dana was in an accident earlier. Alice chewed on a ragged fingernail as Mrs. Fairbanks drilled her with questions about her daughters condition. No one is allowed to see her tonight. Everyone has to wait until visiting hours start tomorrow at nine. So I guess Ill see you guys in the morning? She paused, waiting for a reply. Good night to you, too, Sharon, and tell Howie I said hello. Alice flipped the phone shut and leaned her forehead against the cool brick beside the door. *****, she muttered, squeezing her eyes shut.