“And how will you know she’s the one” ask Maria?

Helena thought it over for a moment and smile.” Trust me I’ll know.”

“Well if I go by that smile on your face she will be special. I hope you find her Helena or maybe she closer then you think.” Maria said with an almost knowing smile of her own.

Helena looked at the older woman who’s opinion she had come to value greatly. “You don’t say. Do you have something you would like to share with me Maria? Giving her one of her sexiest smile.

“Sugar you need to save that sexy smile for the one it belongs to. Because if it was me, trust me you wouldn’t be able to handle this.” Sheila and Reggy couldn’t help but laugh at their antics. Helena knew she had just been played and join in with the laughter.

Maria stood up and walked toward Helena. She put her hand on her shoulder and gave it a slight squeeze. Looking her in her eyes to let her know that she was serious about what she was about to say.

“Helena I know you say you want the real deal or the brand name. But remember everything comes with side effects even love. Sometimes you have to try out a few in order to get to one that works. Just because it has a brand name doesn’t make it any better than say the one beside it. Sometimes we over look what is right before our eyes. You should read the label sometime you maybe surprise of what you may find.”

“I swear you and Shane must be related. Please don’t tell me I shouldn’t want the real thing. That I should continue to accept the same mediocre relationships that leave me feeling empty and alone. That I won’t do. I can’t” her voice was low and weak. She lowered her head not wanting her to see the hurt that had filled her eyes.

“I’m not saying that” as she lifted Helena’s chin. “Honey you deserve the right to be happy. And she’s waiting for you. I know she is. Because you know why?” Helena shake her head no. “Because she is as lost as you.” This brought a smile back to Helena’s face. “And just like you she probably don’t read the labels either. Now get out of here and enjoy the rest of your day. That’s an order young lady.”