“Does anybody know what its about?” Jenny said

Nobody spoke.

“Alice sounded a bit distant on the phone, I’m sure its fine. Didn’t you see her yesterday Shane?” Bette said

Shane had been sitting with a stoic expression on her face all morning, she knew. She knew something was wrong and her guess, considering that the only other group member missing was Dana that it was probably to do with her.

“Yeh but she was fine.” Shane replied, never one to speak more than was required.

“Where is Dana I wonder?”

Jenny’s question was answered as both Alice dressed in casual jeans, blouse and tank top and Dana dressed in casual jeans and a tee shirt walked into the Planet hand in hand. Dana looked nervous and was trying to smile but it didn’t reach her eyes.  Alice on the other hand was trying to look upbeat although she too seemed to be trying to look happier than she truly felt and none of this went unnoticed by the group.  The sight of two of their best friends reunited should have been reason to celebrate but each of the 7 women sitting round the table knew better.

“Hey girls” Kit greeted them

“Hey guys” they both replied still holding tightly to each others hands as they sat down

“So what’s the big news baby girl?” Kit asked Alice; trying to sound casual but knowing she was getting bad vibe

“Eh well…” Alice began

“Al asked you all here today on my behalf.” Dana started

“Because..I…erm…” Dana cleared her throat.

Twice

It was Alice’s turn to clear her throat and she found her voice

“There is no easy way to say this guys. Dana is going in for an operation in a couple of days. She eh..” Alice looked at Dana who looked back into her eyes, tears threatening to fall.

“I have breast cancer.” Dana said, surprising even herself that she had managed to get it out with such conviction.

“I have advanced ductal carcinoma which needs a mastectomy on Friday and chemotherapy in a few weeks.  But it’s fine.” Dana wasn’t quite sure who she added that last comment for, her friends or herself.