Bette watched the couple on the floor, her own eyes welling with tears.  She knew that her friend was slightly damaged, but the reality of the despair the woman had in her sleep still shocked her.  It was the only place that could bring Shanes walls down, her unconscious mind did not protect her from the harsh reality of lifeand that broke the older womans heart.  Walking around the couch she fell to the floor and hugged Shanes other side, pulling both women toward her.  She gazed up in Alices eyes and they both made a promise to each other right there, a complete understanding of what they would do to help the shaking form between them.

The warmth of the bodies and the soothing words comforted Shane, who was still too exhausted to wake up, but was led by the sweet voice into a more gentle sleep state.  Her body finally relaxing along with her fatigued mind she welcomed the restful dreamless sleep.

Shhhyoure safe ShaneIll never let anything happen to you  Alice continued to talk to the still body reassuring herself that Shane was indeed sleeping peacefully.  Slowly she disentangled herself and stood along with Bette.  Can you help me move her to the bedroom?

The older friend bent down and easily lifted the thin frame in her arms; gently she took her to the bedroom and laid her on the bed.  She stepped back as Alice carefully pulled the covers up and around the fully clothed body after removing Shanes beat up converse.  Her eyes still glistened with unshed tears, as she witnessed the tenderness Alice had for her youngest friend, watching as the blonde gently stroked Shanes cheek and lightly placed a kiss on her forehead.  Bette also placed a kiss on Shanes head urging her affection through her lips onto the pale moist skin.

The two women made their way back to the living room and began to straighten up, neither daring to speak at first.  They fixed the couch back before heading to the kitchen to finish their cold coffee still sitting on the table. Eventually Alice looked up at Bette with adoration. 

Thank you 

You dont have to thank me AlI didnt do anything.  Bette gripped her ex-lovers hand giving them a tight squeeze.  I didnt realize how bad it got, and we have been leaving it up to you take care of herI should have been here more  The guilt was eating at Bette, after all this time she never realized just how tortured her friend was.  She should have known, but Shane never showed it.  Sure Alice talked about the nightmares, and she had witnessed one before, but the grim reality of it was daunting.  She needs to talk to someone.