Oh, Shane! Im sorry. Sometimes I drift off into my own little world. Thank you so much for helping me today. I really dont know what I would have done without you to help me schlep all this stuff. Ana paused a moment, trying to decide how she could thank Shane. The Planet? Bette has told me about that place. Here sister, Kit, owns it, right?

Yeah. She took it over a few months ago, but weve all been going there for years. Shes added a stage and made it classier than it used to be, but its still casual enough to just hang out. Shane looked around at the mess theyd made. Um…I dont think youll be able to find your plates, much less anything to cook with. I dont know about you, but Im starving. Would you like to join me”everybody”for dinner tonight?

Ana smiled. I would love to. Just let me change into something more presentable.

Shane protested, Nah, you look great just like that. Really. She had to restrain herself from giving Ana the once over (again) to emphasize her point.

Seeming not to notice Shanes appreciation, Ana merely laughed. Well, Ill at least put a decent shirt on. After locating a roomy white button-down, she disappeared into the small bathroom calling, Ill be right out.

When she emerged, Ana had not only changed shirts (to Shanes disappointment, though this one was attractive in a more subtle way), but had brushed out her hair so it moved freely and framed her face. The contrast of her dark hair with her pale blue eyes was striking.

A few minutes later, Ana followed Shane through the crowd in The Planet to a corner where her friends sat. Hey, everybody.

Bette looked up at the sound of Shanes voice and caught sight of Ana. Ana! She stood and hugged the newcomer. I am so sorry I couldnt meet you at the airport or help you move in. Tina had prenatal checkup today, and I really wanted to be there. They were backed up and it took a lot longer than I expected.

Ana hugged Bette back and reassured her, Dont worry about it. James met me at the airport and offered to get me settled in the hotel. I really wanted to get settled, though, so I had him help me get my things out of storage and start moving into the studio. Then Shane showed up and took over for James. I have been well taken care of.

Bette smiled in relief. And the apartment? Will it work for you?

Anas face broke out in a huge smile. I absolutely love it. As far as Im concerned, its one of the best perks any job could come with.

Wonderful. Taking Anas hand, Bette turned to the table. Everybody, this is Ana Toledano, my new assistant curator. Ana, this is everybody. Thats Dana, thats Alice, youve met Shane, this is my sister, Kit, and this is Tina, Bette concluded proudly, beaming at her mate.

Hello, DanaAliceKitTina, Ana laughed, running all their names together.

Just then, Marina walked up to the table to see if they needed anything. Her eyes took in Ana and showed their appreciation for the addition to the group. Without hesitation, she extended her hand. Hello. Im Marina.

Ana took the proffered hand, noting how graceful yet strong it felt in her own. Im Ana. Ill be working with Bette.

Having placed the woman in context, Marina smiled. Welcome to Los Angeles. I hope you like it here.

Looking around at the friendly group of women, Ana realized that she already did.