The first time Alice had really questioned the appropriateness of keeping it out was when Tasha had asked about it.  Alice thought she had answered her questions casually and was relieved when Tasha didn’t ask anything more.  Alice knew however that at some point she would have to tell her more.  Now, having taken encouragement from Tasha’s words on the phone which convinced Alice of the importance of reading Dana’s letter Alice found herself once again looking at the photo seeking the courage that she required.

She found it and slowly untied the red ribbon from the packet.  She undid the paper carefully and was greeted with another envelope resting on top of another layer of paper much like a game of pass the parcel.  Alice picked up the envelope and set the remainder of the parcel aside.  She opened it gently and found a note folded around some photos.

Dear Alice,

This is a process.   I know you’re impatient but trust me, be patient and follow the order I’ve placed things in and it will make sense that way.  These are four of my favourite photos of us.  I want you to look at them and see if you can figure out why I chose them.

I’ll talk to you at the next layer

Love

Dana

xXx

Setting the note on the coffee table Alice examined the photos.  She smiled when she realised that the one on top was a copy of the photo she had just been looking at. Understanding instantly the reason for its choice, she moved it to back of the pile and looked curiously at the next one.  It was a picture taken in Bette and Tina’s living room.  Alice suspected it was one of their family nights.  In the picture Dana was sitting on the sofa turned toward the end talking to Shane who was perched on the arm.  She looked deep in conversation and was giving Shane her full attention.  Alice meanwhile was sitting on the floor one arm resting on the couch, laughing with Bette who was sitting opposite her also on the floor.  Alice and Dana were facing completely different directions in the picture.  Alice was bemused as to why Dana would consider this one of her favourite pictures of them together.   She moved it to the back deciding she’d come back to it later.