Ill be right back. Alice told Mark as she got up and headed after Dana. she felt like a jerk now for ignoring her best friend. Dana! She called out just as Dana was reaching the counter.

Dana whirled around at the familiar voice calling out her name. Al. She said nervously, not able to look directly at the blonde.

Hey look, Im sorry, ok? Alice tilted down to catch Danas eye. Danas eyes followed Alices back up so that both women were now standing face to face. So hows everything going? Alice asked trying to swallow her annoyance and at least try to act somewhat normal toward her best friend.

Good. Dana answered over the tension that had begun to grow around them. You know Dana started, taking a deep breath, We could um I mean if youre not doing anything later, maybe we could get together and catch up or something. You know have dinner, or hang out or just whatever. Dana looked up at Alice trying to read her face. When she saw a small flicker of doubt start to show she spoke again. Al, I miss you. She said almost desperately.

OK. Alice agreed, finding the sincerity in Danas words. Um, maybe I could drop by. At dinner time?

Dana couldnt contain the smile that spread across her face at Alices words. That would be perfect. She said not breaking eye contact with Alice. Ill see you at around seven then? Alice nodded and then walked back toward what remained of her friends.

Shane opened her eyes and tried to focus her eyes as she heard someone banging on her bedroom door. Come in! She yelled slightly irritated that she was being woke up.

Its the middle of the afternoon you shouldnt be sleeping anyway. Alice walked into Shanes bedroom and sat on the bed next to her friend.

I was bored. Shane answered turning over on her back so that her head was resting in Alices lap. Whats up? Shane asked sensing that this was going to be one of Alices serious talks.

Stuff. Alice answered. She sighed. Ok. I need advice. Like Yoda advice. Shane was quiet in Alices lap waiting for her to continue. Im going over Danas tonight.