Dana turned around, not realizing someone else was in the kitchen with her. She wiped her hands on her jeans to dry them a bit. Oh, hey. No, Ill just finish this up. There isnt much left. Alice had followed Danas hands with her eyes as they ran up and down her thigh. Again, she felt her cheeks flush. Dana noticed this and turned back around to the sink to avoid Alice seeing her blush. But she could still feel Alices stare.

Um, Al, dinner was great. Really great. Thank you.

Alice finally pulled her gaze fully away from Dana and went to get the beer for Shane.

My pleasure. You know I love to cook, it relaxes me. And especially when Im cooking for you. She suddenly got uncomfortable with what she had just said and quickly tried to cover herself, You know, cause you like, eat it with such gusto, you know? Even if it sucks, you always seem to enjoy it so much. It makes a cook feel good to see someone enjoy it.

I do enjoy it. And Al, I dont think youve ever made something that sucked. Dana said, looking over her shoulder to give Alice a small smile.

Ha! Now I know youre placating me.

No really, Babe. I love it when you cook for me. Really.

Yeah, yeah. Whatever. Alice was looking through the refrigerator, Hey, we dont have anymore Pinot, I cant believe you finished the whole bottle alone. Do you want something else?

Its good wine. And it went down really easily – with Tina here, its just so comfortable, you know? Like old times.

Alice nodded in agreement, she answered Dana in a melancholy sort of way, Yeah, it is. But in the back of my head, I keep remembering everything thats different now. So much has changed, Dane. Alice paused for a second, but didnt want to dwell on the sadder things in life right now. But she is here. And thats what is important. And in about 20 minutes, Bettes going to be here and then the night is going to get exciting.

Dana caught the sadness in Alices voice and wanted to make her feel better, but knew that she couldnt do it. There wasnt much she could say to take away the pain that Alice felt, but she hated to hear it. Dana wanted to just lighten the mood and at least help Alice enjoy the night, if not anything else.