Alice, I totally would have given you my number, I just didnt have a phone at the time. Shane added.

Doesnt that count for something, Porter?

Yes, it counts for a lot, just nothing on the bet. Face it Alice, you lost the bet.

They bickered back and forth for a few minutes, still resolving nothing.

Alice, for some reason, this doesnt surprise me coming from you. You met your best friend and your partner through a bet. Only you. Julia chuckled.

You got Alice figured out pretty quickly. Tina said, You are quite the observant one. She put her hand on Julias and smiled. Bette looked on, getting jealous feeling. She wasnt sure what she expected from seeing Tina or even what she wanted, but she knew that the relationship between Tina and Julia was making her very uncomfortable.

Well, I need to get back to the gallery. She said, getting up from the table. Tina, I hope I get to see you and Cara again, before you leave.

Tina rose from her seat to give her a hug, Well plan something.

Bette knelt down in front of Cara, It was very nice to finally meet you Cara. You are a beautiful little girl, just like your mommy.

Fank you.

Alice, Ill call you about dinner tonight?

Sounds good, Bette. Have a good day.

Yeah, guys, I need to go too, I have an appointment in like ten minutes. Bette, wait up, Ill walk out with you. Later guys.  Shane said, leaving the table.

So, Chris, what do you have planned for the rest of the day?

Not much. Nothing till dinner with Dana, why? What are you doing?

I thought Id play hookie and hang out with you and Cara. Sound ok?

Sounds perfect!

Well, I should go then. I need to get my stuff together from the office anyway before I leave. Alice added, Dane, you coming?

Yeah. I need to get back to the club.

Everyone said their goodbyes. Dana and Alice were walking out to their cars. Hey Dane, nice jeans.

What? Oh, Im sorry. I just didnt have clothes at the house.

Alice reached up to grab Danas face, Im joking. Relax. I hate this eggshell thing with us. I dont like having to think before I speak to you.

Im sorry. Besides, since when do you think before you talk? She quipped, grinning at Alice, trying to break the tension just a little bit, I know you love these jeans, I shouldve grabbed something else.

I do occasionally, just not with you. And dont worry about the jeans, I really was kidding. Besides, they look better on you.

No, I love these jeans on you.

Just make sure you return them before I leave on Sunday. You know theyre my favorite, I would miss them if I left them at home.

I will. Oh, Al?

Yeah?

Can we get together before you leave? I mean I know Tina is staying with you. But I just want to spend a little time before you go. Is that ok?

Alice smiled warmly at Dana, a part of her wanting to so no, but most of her just wanting to see Dana and maybe get her to open up, Yeah, Dane. Well figure out when.

Thanks. And thank you for last night. It means a lot to me. It really does, Al. Danas eyes filled with tears as she spoke, Im sorry. Its just been a really rough few weeks.

Alice pulled Dana into a hug, Its ok, Baby. You never have to thank me. Its a given. OK? And dont worry, no matter what has you so scared, well work figure it out. You know Ill take care of you. Ill do anything. Just please, dont cry.

Dana pulled Alice in tighter, I know you would. Im sorry. Im so sorry.

TBC