Dana shoved Shane and in one quick motion opened and then shut the door, locking Shane outside. She moved towards the bedroom door, hearing the muffled sobs grow louder with each step. She put her ear against door and then slowly and quietly opened the door.

Shane, please.

Dana stood behind Alice, wrapping her arms around her. Are you ok?

Alice turned, her eyes filled with rage, You.

Al. Dana pleaded.

Get out! I dont ever want to see you again.

Al

Dana dodged the barrage of swats Alice directed at her as she screamed. You *****! How could you? You left me at the altar and now you have the nerve to show up here like nothing happened.

When Alices tears fell, Dana stopped moving, allowing the painful contact. I needed some more time. Dana bowed her head, hiding the tears in her own eyes. When Alices bloodshot eyes caught hers, she elaborated, I saw Lara. And no, I didnt sleep with her oror kiss heror anything like that. I-I um needed closure. And then she uh gave us her blessing. Why is your dress wet?

Dont change the subject. Why Dana? Do you expect me to just take you back?

Dana sighed, I dont expect you to do anything. She found herself unable to verbalize what was on her mind. She wanted to tell Alice how hurt she was that when she returned to the church, everyone was gone. Dont act like youre the only one hurt. You think this was easy for me? You think that I like that my parents wont come to my wedding? That I was supposed to be married to someone else? That-that you only see the worst in me? Id never hurt you intentionally and somehow you always think Im doing just that for the ***** of it. Im not.

Tina arrived at Alices a half hour later, the apartment key dangling from her finger. Looking for this?

Shane nodded and reached for Tinas outstretched hand. Thanks. I was getting worried about Al. Shane quickly opened the door and marched towards the bedroom. She swung the door open, the noise causing Dana to pull away from Alice, and before Dana knew what hit her, Shanes fist connected with her face.