“Isn’t that right?” Angelica grabbed Dana’s nose and happily gurgled her concurrence. “See?” Dana said in a nasal tone that made them all laugh.

The table gradually filled. Lara came by and poured the first of several wines she’d paired with the dinner for those who were drinking. The meal was amazing and the company better, despite some noticeable tension between Bette and Tina. Several times Dana and Alice caught each other’s eyes and shared a private moment across the room. By the time dessert was served, Alice could barely breath. She went to splash some cold water on her face. Moments later Dana came in, locking the door behind her. Alice turned and Dana rushed to her, planting a crushing kiss on her lips. Alice returned it with fervor and the couple made out with an intense passion until Alice’s phone rang.

“Ignore it,” Dana said, without breaking the kiss.

“I can’t baby,” Alice panted, flipping it open. “Shane! What?” Dana ran her tongue along Alice’s jaw line, sliding her fingers to the special spot on the back of Alice’s neck. Al’s knees went weak. “Unlock the door, Bette’s on her way to bust you.”

Seconds later Bette strolled into the ladies room expecting to catch Alice and Dana in the act. Instead, she found Alice applying some lipstick and Dana in the stall. Her face fell briefly as she moved to the sink to wash her hands.

“Thanks Yoda,” Al whispered as she passed Shane on her way back to her seat and gathered her things. Dana did the same and they bid the group goodnight, citing Dana’s fatigue as their reason for leaving early.

“Don’t feel bad,” Alice said to Bette as she hugged her. “Two seconds earlier and you would have caught us.” Dana blushed as Bette laughed.

“Have a good time. I can’t wait to hear all about it,” she mumbled.

“I’m not sure there’ll be much to tell about ten days of silence,” answered Bette. “Take care of yourself, Dana. I’ll miss you.”

During the ride home, Alice didn’t resist Dana’s wandering hands until she was nearly too distracted to drive.

“Dane, you have a choice…behave for five minutes until we get home.”

“Or?” Dana said, pulling Alice’s hand to her lips and sucking her fingers slowly into her mouth.