The optimism in Alice’s voice was not lost on Dana. “Well, we’d better go then.” Alice’s face lit up. “Dana, if you don’t feel like it we can stay home. I’m sure we could see them some other time, after you get better.” Dana smiled at the care Alice was showing. “Nonsense, Al. I know how much you love them. Plus when are we gonna get this opportunity again. This is a big deal. We’re going, and everything’s gonna be fine.”

Dana leaned around Alice to see the next point in the match. “God, Dana. You’re such a jock. So fuckin sexy.” Dana wiggled her eyebrows suggestively and leaned in to kiss Alice again. Alice pulled back and looked into Dana’s eyes with a look of loving adoration. “I love you Dana Fairbanks.” Dana’s smile lit up the room.

“I love you too, future Mrs. Fairbanks.” Alice’s grin looked as though it was going to break her face. Just then, Dana’s phone rang, and Alice dutifully grabbed it from the coffee table. MOM AND DAD showed on her screen and she sighed before answering it.

“Hi, mom.” Alice’s eyes immediately got big, and she moved to get off Dana’s lap. She was almost up when she felt a strong arm on her hip to keep her where she was. “How do you find these things out before I call you? I don’t understand.” Alice’s concern was immediate, and she reached out to rub the tennis player’s shoulder with her right hand. “Yeah, mom. Lara and I broke up, and I’m with Alice again.” There was a short pause where Dana’s face dropped.

“No, mom. It’s not going to be like last time. NO! I know what I’m doing.” Alice bit her lip and took a sudden interest in the wallpaper on the opposite wall. “Mom, I’m happy. This is where I belong, and we both know it. God, why do you have to do this. It’s my decision.” Alice successfully got off Dana’s lap this time and retreated to the bedroom to give Dana some privacy.

“What? Uh, I mean, yeah I guess we could do that. 2 tomorrow. Ok, yeah we’ll be there.” Dan huffed as she hung up. “Alice?” Alice’s form reappeared, standing in the entry to the hallway, looking like an awkward teenager. “We have dinner with my parents and How tomorrow.” Alice’s panic was excruciatingly evident on her features.

“Al, chill out. Mom just wanted to make sure this is what I wanted.” The trademark Fairbanks grin broke across Dana’s face, and a look of contentment showed itself in her eyes. “They approve, and now they’re ready to accept you into the family.”