“Dane, I know this ankle thing is really frustrating. Hell, I’m frustrated for you. You’re so used to being independent, and you don’t need anyone. I understand what you’re going through. You’re limited now, and you’re forced to sit here and watch tennis, instead of being on the court like you should be. I know how much it’s hurting you, but it’s KILLING me to not be able to do anything. I just sit here pointlessly, completely useless while you’re in pain and miserable. You’re hurt and I can’t stand it. I just wish I could make it all better for you.”

Alice focused her gaze back on the tie on Dana’s pajama pants so the tennis player couldn’t see the hurt in her eyes. Dana put a finger under Alice’s chin and brought her face back up so she could look her square in the eye.

“You’re wrong when you say I don’t need anyone. Baby, I need you. It is very frustrating, but there’s nothing we can do now but wait til it gets better. I don’t want you to carry this burden Alice. I’m fine, really. I have no problem watching tennis, and before you know it you’ll be back at the courts watching me play. Everything’s ok. You’re not useless at all, Al. You’re keeping me sane and happy right now. I’m not going to sit here and say I’m not in pain, because it’s very painful, but baby, I’m very far from miserable. I’ve got you. You’re my everything. All this means is that you and I get to spend more time together, so I’m kind of grateful for this. I wish you understood how much I love you. You’re my whole life, Alice. I don’t want you to ever feel like I’m miserable, even if I’m hurt somehow, cause if I’m with you, I’m the luckiest woman on the face of the earth.”

Alice’s frown turned into a slightly embarrassed smile as she looked up at her girlfriend through her eyelashes. Dana smiled sincerely and leaned in to plant a small, loving kiss on the writers smiling lips. “Now, what’d Shane have to say?” Dana grabbed the remote from Alice’s hand and turned the Open back on. “She called to tell me that Tegan and Sara are playing at The Planet tomorrow night. Pretty big deal.”