The two women sat there in silence, each pondering their own set of problems.

Just then, Shane’s cell phone rang, breaking the train of thoughts both women were having. Shane checked the called ID and it was Tina calling.

“Hey mama.”

“Hey Shane, how have you been.” Tina said over the other end of the line.

“Great as I can be, I guess. Whassup?”

“Well, we are on our way to Carmen’s room now. Wondering if you are around as well.”

Shane turned to Alice with a horrified look on her face.

—————————–

“Hey girl!” Bette walked into the room with Angelica in her arms. Tina followed behind, hanging up her cell phone as she took her turn to hug Carmen.

“Hey, thanks for coming.” Carmen said appreciatively.

“I’m sorry we couldn’t be here more often.” Bette apologized as Angie made a fuss and reached out to her Aunt Carmen.

Carmen grabbed the little toddler and said,  “Don’t be, really. I really appreciate the fact that you are here. Hey you kiddo.”

Carmen started cooing the little toddler.

Mercedes stood up from the armchair she was resting on and cleared her throat. Taking the hint immediately, Carmen flustered as she made the introductions.

“Momma, these are my very good friends, Bette and Tina, and their little sweetie here, Angie. This is my mom and my sister Anna.”

Anna was immediately taken with Angie and murmured a quick ‘hi’ before transferring her attention to the toddler. Mercedes started making smile talk with Bette and Tina sat down by the bed so that she could talk to Carmen.

“Can I take her to the window?” Anna asked Tina, knowing that they probably needed to talk a bit. Carmen smiled gratefully to her sister and Tina nodded.

“So, how are you doing?” Tina smiled unsurely as she rubbed her hands along Carmen’s arms.

“Very well, thank you.” Carmen smiled back.

“Good. So you would come to Angie’s second birthday party next week?”

Carmen stared at Tina before taking a glance at Angie. She loved her little niece to death, and would love to attend her important day. But