“OK Shane, I love ya to death, but man, you are starting to look like death warmed over.”

“Nice to see you too, Al.”

Dana leaned forward, “No seriously Shane, Al’s right. You need to get some sleep.”

I shook my head, “I sleep.”

Tina took her turn, “How often? Sweetie, you need to take care of yourself.”

I just glared at her, “You did not just call me sweetie… Tina, man… do I really look like someone’s sweetie?”

The whole table started giggling. Bette wrapped an arm around Tina. “Tee, I do have to agree with Shane, you gotta reel in those pet names you try so hard to give everyone. Or at least be better at naming them. Shane is definitely not a Sweetie… maybe a Foxy Lady…?”

Alice giggled, “Yeah, or a Hot Momma?”

I held a hand up, “Guys, guys… How about I’m just Shane?” As much as I appreciated the conversation turning away from my current living habits, I did not want to hear what they could think up to call me… knowing Alice, something would stick.

Al looked down, pretending to be hurt, then quietly let loose, “Fine Shane… sorry… Shaney-Shane-Shane.”

I rolled my eyes but let it pass. Muffins and bagels were enjoyed and as we were all getting ready to get up and head to our jobs, Kit came running up to the table.

“Oh I’m so glad I caught all of you! I just wanted to remind you all of my show tomorrow night… you are coming, right?”

We all nodded, letting her know we wouldn’t miss it for the world. She beamed at us, and it was instantly obvious how much that truly meant to her. As we got up to leave, Bette placed a hand on my shoulder.

“Hey, we haven’t had dinner in a while… why don’t you come by this evening for some food and a swim? Like old times?”

I was about to come up with an excuse to get out of it, but saw her face. Her face looked concerned, and in her eyes you could tell she was ready to argue with me till I relented. I gave in before we even went there. “Sure Bette, what time will you be home?”