She wontshe doesnt trust them.  I got the impression that she has talked to someone before  Alices head fell and she studied a small scratch on the wood table, lightly stroking it with her finger.  She doesnt really trust anyonebut I think she does trust me some

Thats too much for one person Al.  Maybe Tina and I could let her stay with us for awhile in the guest roomyou knowto give you a break.  Bette smiled and gripped her friends hand tighter. 

Alice looked up and furiously shook her head.  NoI need to be with her, I know how to calm her down.

Alyou have to be tireddo you even get any sleep?

Shes staying here Bette.  I wont budge on that I need her as much as she needs me.  Alice jerked her hand away and looked at her concerned friends frown.  I get plenty of sleep you knowholding her comforts me.

Bette looked up into the deep brown pools and watched them flash with determination.  Once Alice put her mind to something, there was nothing no one could do to stop her.  Shane was enough evidence of that, if it had been up to Bette they never would have met the teen.  Still Alices big heart brought the frail woman into the family and Bette cherished her for that.  Okaybut Tina and I are here too.  We can still help.  Ill talk to her about seeing someone, maybe she will listen to me.  She watched her friend nod in agreement.  Bette let out a slight groan and stretched as she stood up.  I need to get home and shower before Tina gets back.  Do you need us to come over tonight?

Nah.  Well be fine.  Im probably just going to crawl into bed myself for the rest of the day. 

Okay. Ill lock up on my way out, but you call us if you need anythingpromise?  Bette raised her eyebrow.

I promise Porternow go take a shower while I light some candles to get rid of your smell.  Alice grinned and motioned toward the front door.  I swear you rolled out of that bucket of liquor and right into a gutter.  She laughed at her own joke.

Bette shook her head grinning at her.  Youre so funny!  Maybe you should take that act on the road?  She mocked her friend.  Okay AlIll call you later.

The two parted and Alice made her way back to the bedroom.  She stopped in the doorway and stared at how peacefully Shane was sleeping.  Quietly she made her way across the room and carefully climbed on the bed careful not to wake her.  Gently she laid her body against the warmth of Shane and once again cradled her and slipped into an exhausted sleep.