Dr. Hernandez cleared his throat tactfully. Well, Id advise you make sure that your choice is okay with her before you set it in stone.

Sure, thing, Doc, Shane said with a smile. Thanks.

He departed, leaving the four alone again. Alice flopped down in a chair. Well, Im staying here.

We cant see her until morning, Shane reminded her.

Alice looked up, her forehead knotted. Yes, but if something happens, I want to be here.

Tina looked at Bette wearily. They both nodded. Well stay, too, Tina informed them.

*****, why not, sounds like a plan, Shane said nonchalantly, sitting in the chair a few seats down from Alices.

Were going in search of some coffee, Bette told them. Surely there must be some decent brew somewhere in this building.

I wouldnt count on that, Alice muttered as she stretched her legs out across several seats, using her jacket as a pillow as she tried to get comfortable.

Shane slid down in her seat. Why do you really want to stay the night?

What are you talking about? Alice said sharply.

Come on, Al, I know you. Something else is up. I can hear it in your voice.

Alice turned over on her side. I have to stay here.

Why is that?

Cause this whole thing is my fault, she mumbled into her jacket.

What? Shane stood up and leaned down beside Alice. Did you just say what I think you said?

Alice nodded, avoiding her eyes. Yes, its my fault, so I have to stay here. I deserve to be uncomfortable and miserable here.

Now how could Danas accident be your fault? Shane asked her.

Because Dana was on her way to pick me up. If I hadnt called and asked her for a ride, this never would have happened. She never would have even been on the road, Alice admitted tearfully.

So you feel guilty? Shane asked. Alice nodded. Over another persons accident? Another nod. An accident you were nowhere near? Nod. Something you had no control over whatsoever? A pause, and then a nod. Alice, you have no reason to feel guilty. You do, though, cause its a natural reaction to whats happened.

Alice frowned. I dont? It is?

Shane lifted Alices chin with her finger. Alice, its not your fault no more than it is mine, or Bettes, or Tinas. You just feel guilty because youre hurting, and you dont know what else to do. You have to redirect your feelings somewhere, and youre putting them onto yourself.

Alice sniffled as Shane gently wiped a tear from her cheek. How is it you always have the answer to stuff like this?

Shane gave her a crooked grin. Because Im Yoda, remember?

Alice felt as if a huge weight had been lifted from her chest, and she could suddenly barely stay awake. Blinking sleepily at Shane, she yawned. Thanks, Yoda, she murmured, her eyelids fluttering.

Shane sat down in the chair next to her and quietly stroked Alices hair. Anytime, she said tenderly to the sleeping Alice, watching her as she slumbered peacefully. Leaning back, she stared into space, repeating to herself, Anytime.