“Then what’s going on?” Dana challenged, struggling into her socks, keeping her eyes on the task to avoid Lara’s gaze.

“You’re not in love with me.  We might as well both stop trying to fool ourselves.  I deserve better,” Lara said plainly, gathering up her own clothes.  “I’m tired of feeling strung-along, or being thrown a pity *****.”

Dana sat on the bed silently for several beats, watching Lara hurriedly dress.  “That’s not true,” she finally said.

Lara put her hands on her hips.  “Dana Fairbanks, you’re lying to me and you know it.  You could at least be honest with me.  I deserve that.”

With a sigh, Dana leaned forward, elbows on her knees and staring down at the floor.  “You’re right,” she finally admitted.

Lara watched her a moment, cocking her head to the side to silently observe Dana.  “You’re not over her, are you?  You still love her.”

“Who?” Dana played dumb.

Lara let out a frustrated sigh.  “Alice.”

The name alone sent a shockwave of emotion through Dana.  “Yes,” she whispered.

“Dana, I’m sorry it had to end this way, but it’s better for both of us.  There will always be a small part of me that loves you, but I deserve better than this,” Lara explained, tying her shoelaces.

“I’m sorry,” Dana said softly, not knowing what else to say. 

Lara bit her lip.  “I am, too, Dane.  I hope things work out for you, and that we can remain friends.”  She headed for the door.

“Thank you, Lara,” Dana called after her.

Lara turned around.  “For what?”

“Forfor everything,” Dana replied with a small smile.

Lara nodded.  She understood what Dana meant.  “Good luck with Wimbledon.”

“I’m not going.”  Dana’s answer was void of emotion.  “I’ve decided not to participate.”

Lara frowned.  “What?  Can you even do that?  Why in the world would you turn this down, Dana?  A chance to compete at Wimbledonthat’s a huge thing.  If you win that, you’ll become the top-ranked female tennis player in the world.  That’s major.”

“I know that.”  Dana buried her face in her hands.  “I just don’t think I want to go.  Someone can replace me.  I just want to stick around here.  I have things to do.”