Okay, Darah, fine. Do you care to answer that question?

Ive been in love once, Alice. I say, just a little snarky.

Shanes eyes move to me in the mirror. They widen a little, and I have no clue what she is thinking. It could be a million things.

It is taking way too long to get to Topanga. It is beautiful, however, a gorgeous, sparkling late-summer day. And after that, Alices questions take a lighter turn and it is actually fun.

When we finally step out into the sun into an undeveloped area teeming with construction workers and supplies, my mood has lightened a bit. I want to get Alice alone to apologize to her, but shes with Kyle.

There are about a a hundred volunteers who have assembled for the project. Tina is one of the project coordinators, and I see her in the middle of the fray with a clipboard.

Were building a safe house for domestic violence victims, and the location is perfect for it. Its out in the middle of nowhere near Topanga Canyon, on a hill, and it could be a military installation, or a fort. They show us the drawing of what the house will look like, and tell us that by the end of today, thats what will be there.

I find myself enjoying the day immensely. First I am put to work putting up drywall. By afternoon Im spackling. When they find out Im a nurse Im put to work assisting the site medic, handing out water, urging people to avoid sunstroke. I take the blood pressure of a man who has a headache. Hes fine. There are numerous small injuries, mostly people whove hit themselves with hammers.

Ive lost track of my friends. I look up while Im dressing an abrasion and see Shane staring at me. She is leaning against one of the vans, drinking a bottle of water. Im glad shes staying hydrated. Its a very hot day.

She sees me looking, and turns away. It burns in my chest.

Im gonna take five, I tell the medic, and she nods.

I make my way back to the van and climb inside. Its a million degrees here, and I know that I cant stay in here for long. I need the shelter though, because the minute the door is closed, tears start to flow.