Thanks.

Tina smiled at her and repeated Bettes question trying to get more of a read into Danas state of mind, And how are you?

Dana shrugged her shoulders, Ok, I guess. Hows everyone?

Theyre ok. Shane took it hard that you left. Shes sorry about hitting you. And Alice is-

Uh, where are you sitting? I can get you closer
seats if you want.

That would be great. Bette answered. Tina nudged Bette, We dont want to distract you though.

Well, if you change your mind tell them I said you can sit wherever you want. If I dont see you after the match, tell everyone I miss them.

Will do.

Well, let me change into tennis clothes and Ill go find you guys. It means a lot that youre here.

Its good seeing you. We miss you, Dana. Tina hugged her, Come back soon. Good luck!

Dana waved back at her friends and headed to the locker room. She sat on the bench and took a deep breath, willing the tears not to fall. A racket flew in front of her face and she jumped back slightly, Coach, I have one.

Not this one. Alice spoke still holding the racket out.

Dana spun around, her heart in her throat, Al?

Thats me. Alice poked her in the arm with the racket, Take it, its your lucky racket. Go on. It wont bite.

What are you doing here?

I heard you needed your lucky racket. Bette told me todays a qualifying match.

It is. I cant believe youre here. Oh, she made you come, didnt she?

They invited me.

I shouldve known you wouldnt have come on your own.

I wouldve if I was invited. How are you?

Ok. How are you? Dana asked.

Hanging in there.

Dana touched Alices face, I almost forgot how beautiful you are.

Dana, dont.

You are. She caught Alices eyes with her own and slowly inched her face closer, testing to see if Alice would kiss her back. She pressed her lips to Alices.