Oh, nothing.”

Dana nodded and looked at the children.

“Chris is adorable. I like him.” Dana smiled. She turned to Alice.

“Do you ever think of getting him tennis lessons or maybe any other sports lessons?”

“Why?” Alice raised her eyebrows.

“Cause I can see an athlete in him. He has this attitude for competition. Did you see the way he chased me down when I challenged him? Amazing.” Dana said.

Alice could see Dana’s eyes lit up whenever she mentioned his name. Alice looked away when she realized Dana was looking at her.

“You ok?” Dana asked sincerely.

“Yeah I am ok.”

“Great.” Dana said barely whisper and looked back at the children.

They sat in silence but were content in each other company.

After cleaning themselves, they all headed back to the car and got in. As they pulled away from the car park the children were yawning, and fell asleep shortly after that. Dana and Alice ride in silence, each stealing glances at one another.

Dana scooped Chris out from the car and headed towards the door. Alice opened the door and Dana made her way to Chris’ room. Alice closed the door behind her and walked to the kitchen. Dana went back to the living room and saw Alice sitting on the couch. She made her way to the loveseat and settle down. Alice passed her a bottle of water which she opened it immediately and gulped half of it.

“Wow, easy tiger. You don’t want to choke to death do you?” Alice tried to lighten the mood. Dana closed the lid of the bottle and smiled to Alice.

“I had a great day Al. Thanks.”

“Me too.” Alice answered. She smiled and looked at her own bottle of water.

“When are you heading back to New York?” Alice was shocked at the question. She looked up at Dana. Dana smiled at her.

“Two days after Shane’s wedding. Ermm, how about you?”

“One day earlier than you.” Dana smiled weakly. There was an awkward silence in the room before she spoke again.

“Can I call you when we both get back?” Alice raised her eyebrows. Dana continued.

“Like catching up once a month on the phone?” Dana shrugged.

“Yeah it’ll be great…catching up using phone.” Alice nodded and looked away.

Dana exhaled and fidgeted the water bottle she was holding.

“Thanks Al.”

Alice diverted her gaze to Dana.

“What is it for?”

There was a silence in the room before Dana continued.

“For being friends with me again.”

Alice was unable to look at Dana or say anything at that moment, scared that Dana would see the vulnerable side of her. She just looked down at her feet until they heard a honk outside the house. It was Shane.

“Well guess I should go now.” Dana stood up and walked towards the door. Alice followed behind. Dana opened the door and turned to Alice.

“Bye.” Dana smiled weakly and turned to walk away. But before she realized she was pulled into a hug by Alice. She melted into the hug and hold Alice tightly as she inhaled and memorized her scent. This might probably be their last hug, and therefore no word was needed at this point of time. Shane looked at them and thought why her two best friends were so fucking stubborn. Alice tried to hold her tears not wanting Dana to know she was about to cry. Then Dana pulled away slowly and said goodbye and started to walk towards Shane’s car. Her feet getting heavier each step she made as she walked away from the love of her life.