OK, so I figured Id make something that she likes too. I am leaving for a few weeks and god knows Shane wont be cooking for her. Between the two of them, theyll eat do much take out, but healthy take out, that Shanes place will be covered with cartons by the time I get back. I should leave her well fed.

Are you doing ok with all of this, Al? You havent said a word all afternoon.

I dont know what to say, Tina. I love her and she doesnt love me anymore. I cant make her. I dont want to make her. So, if this is it, Ill figure out what to do next.

Dont say that. You know she loves you, Al. She is just going through something. Give her time to come to her senses.

I dont know. I really dont. I thought she did, but how could I not doubt it now?

Alice, do you remember what you said to me that first night I showed up at your house after, uh, well after Candace?

I said a lot, what in particular?

I was saying that I doubted that she loved me and that I didnt know if I could ever let myself love her again.

I remember, I quoted you my favorite sonnet. But this is totally different.

No its not, its all fear. Same as me that night, same as me when I ran away from LA. Tina admitted in a sad voice. I dont think you really believe she doesnt love you, I think youre scared of believing she loves you and of you letting yourself keep on loving her. Alice, you cant let go of that. If you do, when she is having whatever doubts are causing this, youre going to let something go that shouldnt go. Do you still remember the sonnet?

Of course I do. But I still dont think its relevant.

God you are a stubborn woman. Love is love. Regardless of the problems, what caused it or who you can blame for it. If you love her, thats it, pure and simple. It doesnt go away, ever, love doesnt die. And I remember it, so listen to the words and then tell me its irrelevant.