Alice finally looked again at the picture. Gazing at Dana with her arms around someone else, their mouths linked was enough for Alice to finally allow the tears to fall. Once they started, they didnt stop.

—

Dana got to Shanes salon just before closing. She stood outside, pacing for a few minutes before she finally went inside.

Shane was busy finishing up someones cut, so Dana just sat down in the front, not wanting to disturb Shane. When Shanes customer rose out of the chair, Shane noticed Dana up front, flipping through a magazine with such speed there was no way she was reading it.

Hey Dane! What are you doing here?

Oh, I just was in the neighborhood.

Dane, you live five minutes away, youre always in the neighborhood. Lets try this again.

Dana got up and walked over towards Shane, I just wanted to see if you had plans for dinner. Thought maybe we could do some take out.

Miss her already, huh?

Dana blushed and a tiny grin appeared, Yeah. I know she only left this morning.

Its cool Dane. It isnt how long theyre gone, its just that they are, right?

Exactly.

I have a little cleaning up to do, feel free to hang out or I can meet up with you in about forty-five minutes.

The thought of going back to the empty house wasnt all that appealing and more importantly, she knew she had to talk to Shane. If she went home, she might not get the courage up again to talk to her. Shane would know what to do. Even though she wasnt sure Shane would understand, she was fiercely loyal. But if anyone would understand a momentary lapse, it would be Shane.

Ill just hang out here if thats cool with you.

Yeah, sure. If you want to speed up the process, grab a broom.

About an hour later they were back and Alice and Danas place with a couple of six-packs and some Thai takeout.

Dana managed to go through a beer before the food was even out of the containers and then another by the time Shane had opened her first.