The party seems to be a success, everyone appears to be having a good time. Shane’s being the perfect co-hostess, keeping a watchful eye over their guests.

They all gather around the tree when it’s time for Secret Santa. Participation was not mandatory. A $15 limit was placed as well as an emphasis on funny gifts. Shane did the honor of pulling the playing cards that had been ripped in half out of a hat. “Two of hearts!” She would call. The lucky holder of the other half of the card would then poke around the tree and pick out a wrapped gift.

The biggest surprise of the night came when a tipsy Bette revealed that she had been the one who bought the two Chia Pets. No one within earshot could picture Bette Porter standing on line at Big Lots buying any such thing. Especially since the mental picture had her dressed in Prada, Gucci, and Stella.

The last of the party goers are gone by 4 a.m. having stayed to help clean up. And for that the girls are grateful. Without Christine, Alice and Dana the chore would’ve taken them half of Sunday to do on their own.

Shane collapses in front of the fireplace, sprawled out resting her head on a pillow. Harper joins her, laying her head on Shane’s stomach.

“Did you have as much fun as I did?” Shane asks putting her hand on Harper’s head.

“Mmm hmm… but now I am bushed.” Harper sounds like she’s already well on her way to sleep.

“Yeah, me too.” Shane yawns as if on cue, causing Harper to laugh.

“Well, don’t fall asleep yet because I have to give you one of your Christmas presents.” Harper says looking over at Shane.

“Yay! Presents!” Shane smiles with excitement.

“Don’t move!” Harper jumps up, “Oh and close your eyes.”

Shane makes a show of covering her face with a pillow. She listens to the sound of the guest room closet opening and closing. She hears a faint curse muttered as a chair is knocked into. Footsteps. More movement. And then…

“Ok, you can open your eyes.” Harper says smiling as she presents Shane with a large gift wrapped box.

Shane smiles, sits up, takes the box, inspects it and then slowly opens it. Finally the box is opened, tissue paper removed and gift revealed. Shane’s mouth opens into a wide smile when she holds up the wetsuit.