I walk into the apartment to find Alice, dressed to the nines, writing on a pad of paper.

I was just writing you a note, she says looking up at me, Im going out with the others. Ill be home late so dont wait up.

Where are you off to? I ask, with a smile on my face.

Milk, she responds. Things must have gone well for you to be in such a good mood. Are you just here for your stuff? She asks the question with a grin on her face.

Quite the contraryIve decided to move on. Do you mind if I join you? It wont take me long to change.

Sure, that would be greatbut how did things go with Bette?

Oh, II didnt talk to her.

Okay, she says, confused. Go get readyI just need to make a phone call.

Okay, just give me five minutes.

Take your time.

I turn to the bedroom with a hop in my step. I open the closet and pick out my black v-neck tank topI always liked the sequins down the front. I also grab a pair of faded black jeans and lay them both on the bed. I slowly undress and pick up the jeans. Slipping them on, I tell myself I hope someone notices me tonight. Im moving onand I mean tonight. I pick up the shirt and slip it on over my head. I turn to look in the mirror to make sure everything is perfectand notice the chain around my neck. I follow the chain down my neckline to the V it forms on my chest. There it ismy commitment ringright where I put it. I take a deep breath and remove the necklace, placing it gently on the dresser. I take one last look at it and walk out of the room.

Okay, I say to Alice as she hangs up the phone. Im ready.

Lets go. She grabs her purse and keys on our way out the door.

As soon as we pull up to the hotel, I see Dana waiting outside. I get out of the car and let her in the back seat before we head to Milk.