Shane shrugged apologetically. Look, if it upsets you that badly, Ill stay on the couch or something.

Dana softened. No, just forget it. She was quiet a moment, thinking. First she lost her legs, then her privacy, and now her room. What next? Her voice hardening, she said, Forget it. Ive lost everything else, so go ahead and take the room. I dont care. Having said that, she closed her eyes.

Im sorry, Dane, Shane said softly.

There was no reply for several moments, before Dana replied, So am I, Shane. So am I.

*********************************************

Bette smoothly pulled the Saab up to the front of the high school, staring up at the impressive brick and marble building.

Wow, this is your school? Tina said with amazement, looking up at it while shielding her eyes from the sun.

Yeah. Its okay, Howie said with a shrug as he unfolded himself from the car. The things that money can get, huh?

Is it a good school? Bette asked, her eyes following a group of preppy looking girls passing in front of the car.

I dont know. Its school. Schools never good, unless its over, Howie said. Besides, everyone here is rich and boring and stuck up. He pulled his backpack from the backseat, hoisting it onto one shoulder. Say, can you guys um, uh, you know, watch over Dana for me? Make sure shes taking care of herself, and that shes doing okay?

Tina smiled to herself as she watched him shuffling his feet, his shirt half-tucked, his hair sticking up in the back, and dark circles around his eyes. Yes, Howie, we will.

Howies face took on a mischievous look. And if anybody asks, you guys are my girlfriends.

Bette raised an eyebrow. Both of us?

Howie nodded in confirmation.

Tina laughed softly. Howie, youre a good kid, she told him, leaning over to kiss his cheek. He blushed immediately and became tongue-tied. Tina and Bette both had to laugh. The look on his face at that moment was pure Dana, as were his mannerisms.

Watching the red-faced Howie go into the building, Bette turned to Tina. He is a good kid, she said in agreement.