Chapter Three

Marinas POV

We all sat around a table at a bar. It had been only a week since everyone first met Alex but they all had already fallen in love with her and they treated her as a part of our own little mixed-up family. She knew everything about them and their love lives and they knew everything about her well, almost everything.
I had noticed a slight change in Alexs demeanor since that morning. Alex had been very happy and cheerful but now it all seemed fake. How was everyones day? Now maybe Ill know what up.
Everyone shrugged except Alex. The exact reaction I was expecting and somewhat hoping for. Everyone else has noticed the change as well. Alex looked me in the eyes and slightly, so as no one else could see, shook her head. I quirked an eyebrow but nodded.
So, Alex, we all did our usual things today, what about you? Alice asked. You seem to do a different thing everyday.
I mostly stayed at home. Wasnt feeling good earlier this afternoon. I looked at Alex, trying to understand what was wrong. I noticed Alexs hand shaking and a light bulb clicked on. I knew what was going on. I feel much better now though, so dont worry.
Bette looked at me as she watched Alex. She had obviously also noticed Alexs hand shaking. I caught her eyes and answered her unspoken question with a slight nod. Bette immediately put on a fake smile, on that was more convincing than Alexs.

Alexs POV

I leaned back and laid my head on Danas shoulder. Dana looked down at me. Are you alright Alex?
Yeah, I just got dizzy all of a sudden. I closed my eyes, trying to zone everyone out and ignore the two pairs of eyes, Bette and Marinas, that were staring at me with concern. I knew they knew what was going on. Im sorry, is this bothering you? I asked Dana, just realizing that my head was on her shoulder.
Dana looked down at me. No, youre fine. Do you want me to bring you home? I shook her head then turned it further in the crook of Danas neck. All of a sudden I started shaking. Im taking you home. Everyone else in here is sweating bullets and youre shivering like you just jumped in an ocean in Maine. If you wont let me take you home then Im taking you to the hospital.
I sat straight up at that. I grabbed my head and started slightly falling forward but Dana caught me before my head hit the table. Thats it, Shane said. You slept all day, you were dizzy earlier, and now youre about to faint. Shane stood up and helped Dana stand me up. Youre going to the hospital even if I have to carry you myself.
I looked up and glared at Shane. It would be useless. I already know what wrong. I had a doctors appointment this morning. Will you please help me sit back down? Standing up is just making the dizziness worse.
Shane and Dana sat me down. Well, are you going to tell us whats wrong or not?
Leave her alone Shane. Marina looked at me. Are you alright? I slowly nodded. Is it what I think? I looked down and started shaking, this time from tears, not cold. Marina stood up and knelt in front of me. She looked up at me. Are they sure? I nodded. Damn Alex. She stood back up and retook her seat.
Whats going on? Dana asked. Looking around, Im sure she noticed that for once, she wasnt the last to know.
Bette and Marina looked at each other then at me. I laid my head back on Danas shoulder, my tears soaking her shirt where they fell. Alex, do you want us to tell them? Tina looked at Bette, Im sure she was surprised to find out Bette knew what was going on. Everyone watched as I nodded my head once more. Bette looked a Marina.
When we were in high school, Alex was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. It went away then came back when we were in college.
Thats how I know. Everyone looked at me. Dana hugged me tight to herself, rocking me as I slowly started to calm down. I remember it like it was yesterday.
So do I, I said, lifting my head from Danas shoulder, my voice hoarse from crying. I remember everything.
Everyone looked at the ground, ashamed for no reason other than the pity they felt for me, knowing it was not wanted and actually despised. Dana looked at me, careful not to disturb me too much. Will you let me take you home now?
I nodded and stood up, as did everyone else. They all followed Dana and me out to her car, everyone touching me somehow, lending me their strength. Dana was holding my hand, Shanes arm was around my waist, Bette and Tina had their hands on each shoulder, and Marina was holding my other hand. I don know how we made it out the door but we did. I hugged them all and said goodbye as Shane helped me climb in the front seat then she sat in the back. Dana climbed into the drivers seat and we were gone.
Alices POV
We watched as Danas car got smaller and smaller until we couldnt see it anymore. We looked at each other, no longer wanting to be out but not wanting to be alone. Tina and Bette started walking to their car. Tina turned around and looked at Marina and me. She looked at Bette who nodded. You guys want to come over and watch some movies or something? I, not having a boyfriend or girlfriend to go home to, nodded and quickly caught up with Bette and Tina. Marina, you of all people shouldnt be home alone tonight. You can call Jenny from our house.
Thank you but Im alright. Id rather just go home.
I was the one to speak up after that. Step off youre high horse and come with us. Alex may be the one with cancer but Im sure its hard on you to. Get your ***** over here and come with us. No one should be alone tonight and like Tina said, that especially means you.
Marina looked at me and nodded. Youre right. Marina slowly walked up to me and I put my arm around her shoulders. Lets go. The four of us climbed into Bette and Tinas car, Marina and I just a little too drunk to drive.

Danas House
Shanes POV
Dana opened the door and held it open as I helped Alex inside and up the stairs. Where should I put her?
I can walk by myself Shane, Alex said, glaring at me.
Dont care. Dana?
Dana slowly walked up the stairs. Depends on where she want to go. So either the couch or her room.
Alex?
If you must manhandle me then just put me on the couch. Going up the first flight of stairs killed my head. I nodded and carefully helped Alex over to the couch. Thank you Shane. I nodded and sat on an easy chair across from Alex. Im sorry Im being such a *****.
Dana sat next to Alex and hugged her. Dont worry about it Sweetie. WE completely understand. Youre going through a lot right now. I nodded but quirked an eyebrow at Danas behavior. She was stroking Alexs arms as Alex leaned against her, her face buried in the crook of Danas neck again.
I looked at my watch. I have a very important appointment in the morning. Are the two of you going to be alright? Dana nodded as she continued stroked Alexs hair. Okay, well, if you need anything, call me, no matter what time it is.
Thank you Shane. I nodded as I walked backwards, watching the interaction between Alex and Dana. I could see the sparks flying between and them and couldnt wait for them to get together.

Bette and Tinas House
Bettes POV

I looked over at the couch where Marina had fallen asleep. Alice was on the floor, staring intently at the TV, some old black and white movie playing. I was in the easy chair with Tina in my lap. Alice looked at the door when someone knocked. She looked back at Tina and me.
Who could that be? Tina shrugged and Alice stood up to see who it was. Its Shane. Alice opened the door and let Shane in. Hey, why arent you with Alex and Dana?
Didnt want to get burned by the flying sparks. Damn those two need to get together soon. Alice nodded as she sat back down on the floor in front of the TV. Shane sat right next to her, leaning back on her palms. Whatcha guys watching?
Dont know but see that girl coughing? Shane nodded. Shes going to die, Alice said as she laid down, using Shanes stomach as a pillow. I looked at Tina and we both smirked. A blind person could see the sparks flying between those two. Who was Shane to be talking. Theres nothing else on.
Shane tapped Alice on the shoulder and motioned for her to sit up. I wanna lay down. You can use my arm as a pillow. Alice nodded and waited for Shane to get situated. Im good now. Alice laid down and backed into Shane until Shane was spooning her.
You alright? Shane whispered, a half hour later, thinking Tina and I were asleep. Alice nodded and then Shane put an arm around Alice and pulled her closer.
Tina silently giggled at the scene as I just rolled my eyes. Tina looked over and saw Marina was still fast asleep. Are you guys going to make us endure another Dana and Lara incident?
Shane chuckled as Alice turned and buried her face into Shanes shoulder. Leave us alone.
Tina smiled. How long have you two been together?
A week and dont yell at us for not telling yall sooner. We figured it would be easier to stay friends if something were to happen if yall didnt know about us. Tina nodded. I cant believe you thought we were going to pull a DL. Neither of us are that desperate.
For once, mumbled Alice as she turned back towards the television. Dont tell anyone else before we can. I know youve asked me to do that before and I havent but please dont pick now to get back at me.
Neither of us would do that, I said, as I hugged Tina closer to myself. I could tell both Alice and Shane were happy. Finally, they both really deserve happiness and someone who will treat them right. I remember the first time I met both of them.

*****
I walked into a new club. It was crowded and loud. Women were dancing and grinding to the music blasting through the speakers. The club was tacky and its occupants even more so. Every single stereotype was represented.
I walked to the bar and sat next to a blonde woman who was shamelessly flirting with the bartender. The bartender was flirting back and not paying any attention to any of her other customers. You can link anyone, especially lesbians. Theyre the easiest to link.
Dont tell me youre another one of those people who plays Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon? I interrupted. The blonde and the bartender turned and looked at me.
Im sorry, you are who exactly?
Bette Porter. You?
Alice Pieszecki. Youre not from around here are you?
I shook my head. I go to Berekley. Had a big blowout with my roommate when we broke up. The bartender looked between the two of us then went to pay attention to a redhead on the other end of the bar. Havent been back since. Luckily its Christmas Break so Im not missing any classes.
Alice moved to a seat closer to me. Thats horrible. How long had the two of you been going out? Alice looked at me, actual concern showing in her eyes.
Just the semester. We met through her sister at the very end of the summer. Alice nodded. What about you? Anyone special?
I wish. Alice laughed. No, I just broke up with someone myself.
Someone who treated you like ***** Als. I looked up to see a somewhat, butch brunette, standing next to Alice. Im Shane.
Bette. Shane nodded and looked around. You waiting for someone?
Shane doesnt wait for anyone. Shane suddenly whistled. Alice and I turned around to see Marina walk through the door. Damn, Shane. You sure have a good eye.
Damn.
Alice looked at me. That sure didnt sound like a good damn there. Something wrong?
Thats my exs sister. I was hoping she wouldnt be able to find me.
Marina spotted me sitting with Alice and Shane. Bette! I turned around and made like I was going to leave. Oh no you dont. Marina grabbed my arm. Alice and Shane stepped closer to me. I was glad they did, although I had just met them, I felt like we could be very good friends. I was touched that they were worried about me. Marina released my arm.
What do you want Marina? I asked as I sighed and sat back down on my stool.
Look, I know what happened between you and Alex but she really needs all the support she can get right now.
Why? Marina looked over at Alice and Shane. Theyre my friends. You can tell them.
She has cancer.
I stared at Marina. How is that possible?
It had spread before her chemo treatments and the operation. They just never noticed it. I sat my head on the bar. She told me to you she was sorry.
Bette are you alright?

*****

Alices POV
Bette. Bette blinked as Tina shook her out of her thoughts. Are you alright?
Yeah, was just remembering something.
Me too. Bette looked at me. The first time Shane and I met you and Marina. She nodded. I just now realized that your Alex then is our Alex now.
The two of you dont act like youve known each other that long. I know you told me before that you guys went out but still.
Shes not the same person anymore. Once her cancer went back into remission she started traveling all over the world then she became famous. She sent me postcards all the time until she stopped moving. I got one from every country and state she went to. After the one from New York I never got another one. I just figured she was too busy or had lost my address in the move but then I saw her in Kits last video.
She actually sent me postcards too. Shane looked at me. Im sure I didnt get one from every country but I did get one from New York.
I never got any, Shane said, actually looking a little sad.
Bette grimaced. Well, I hate to tell you this but I dont think Alex liked you very much. Actually I think she only recently started liking you. Shane nodded and laid back down. Bette sighed. Shane had truly been hurt. Maybe we should all copy Marina and get some sleep. You two can have the guest room.
Thanks Bette. Bette nodded as her and Tina slowly made their way to their bedroom. I looked at Shane who had sat up and was now staring out the window. Are you alright sweetie?
Im fine. You ready for bed? I put my hand on Shanes shoulder. Alice, Im fine. Im just tired. I nodded and stood up. Help me up please?
Damn girl, you really are tired. I helped Shane up and we headed to bed. Ill check on Alex and Dana in the morning. Shane nodded and closed the door behind us.

The Next Morning
Danas POV
I woke up to the sound of someone pounding on the door. I looked up at the couch. Alex was fast asleep, the sleeping pills still in full effect. I got up and slowly went to answer the door, my back aching from falling asleep in my easy chair. Stop pounding! Im coming! Dana whipped the door open. What?! I demanded, not even seeing who it was.
Geesh Dana. Whats your problem? Alice asked as she pushed me aside and started up the stairs.
I just spent the night in an easy chair then was rudely awakened by someone pounding on my door. I got upstairs just in time to see Alice sit in said easy chair.
She cringed. Sorry bout that. Hows sleeping beauty?
Sleeping. Alice glared at me and for once I didnt back down. I was able to talk her into taking some sleeping pills. She couldnt sleep on her own. Hows Marina? You guys didnt let her go home by herself did you?
No, we all went to Bette and Tinas and watched some movies. Jenny called this morning and came to pick her up. Her and I left our cars at the club.
I nodded even though I hadnt really been paying attention to Alice and she knew it. How long are sleeping pills supposed to work?
Alice chuckled. She probably had noticed me watching Alex the entire time she was talking. Eight hours, or at least they say not to take them if you wont be able to sleep a whole eight hours. I nodded again and looked at my watch, still wearing the same clothes I had been wearing the night before. How long has it been?
Seven and a half house. Should I wake her up? She normally only sleeps six hours. I looked at Alice.
I guess so. If you think shell be mad that you waked her up though I wouldnt, but if she would be mad if you didnt I would.
I stood up and walked over to the couch. I slightly shook Alex, knowing just the slightest disturbance would wake her up, waking to her screaming as Mr. Piddles jumped on her stomach on more than one occasion. She opened her eyes and smiled at me then looked at Alice and smiled at her as well. Morning.
Morning sleeping beauty, Alice said, ignoring the glare Alex threw her way. How you feeling?
Better. I think the sleep really helped. Alex looked at me. Thanks for making me take the sleeping pills. I nodded, the way Alex was looking at me had taken my breath away. Whatcha doing here Alice?
Well, we didnt want to all crowd you so I won to be able to come check on you and see how you were doing. Alex smiled. Now that I know youre alright, I hate to leave but I got to get to work. Alice walked over and kissed Alex on the forehead. Get better Kiddo. Alex scowled at Alice who just laughed and walked downstairs.
You do look like a little kid all wrapped up on the couch like you are. Alex pouted which just made me laugh.
Leave me alone. Alex looked at the clock behind the TV. Do we have coffee?
No, I was going to wait till you got up and wed go to the Planet, nut I could make some if you want.
Please? I really dont want to have to face all them right now. I dont think I could handle all their looks. I nodded and headed in the kitchen. Alex followed me. Thanks Dane.
I turned around and smiled. No problem. Sit down. I turned back to the coffee but I could feel Alexs eyes boring into my back. Have you called your sister yet?
Alexs eyebrows scrunched in confusion as I turned around again to look at her. When could I have called Marina and why would I have called her? I havent had my coffee yet.
Not Marina, Stacy.
Oh! Yeah, I called her that day. She still hasnt called me back though. Hopefully she actually got the message. Her mother doesnt really her talking to me. I nodded and placed a coffee cup in front of Alex and one in front of myself as I sat down. Thanks again.
I waved her off. Have you started the other paintings yet?
Not yet, remember that day I took a bunch of pictures of you guys and asked you to bring some to me? I nodded. Alex stood up and downed the rest of her coffee. Come with me. I stood up and followed Alex to the garage, now Alexs studio.
I gasped at what Alex had done to her half of my garage, having not been in here since the wall was put up to separate the double garage into halves. The walls were dry-walled and painted white (with some splotches of paint that had obviously gone AWOL). She had all kinds of easels set up, some of the paintings on them finished, some not finished, and even some blank canvases. Alex had also put in some built in shelves, which were filled with her art supplies. I cant believe you did all this work in such a short time.
Alex laughed. I dont have a job so I have all kinds of time on my hands. Instead of sleeping all day Ive worked in here. I got the wall up, splitting the garage in half in a day. Anyone else would have taken at least a couple days if not weeks. Dana nodded as she walked by the paintings. Like I said, I havent started the paintings of you guys yet. Ill start tomorrow after I pick up the pictures. The black and white ones take longer than color.
This place looks great Alex. These paintings are beautiful. Alex blushed as I beamed at her proudly. Could you paint the Subaru ad for me? I would be cool to have something last a long time.
Didnt you get one put on a plaque? I nodded but shrugged. I could try. Ill have to get it blown up. My grid would have to be really small if I didnt. I nodded, not really understanding what she was talking about. I should clean up in here. Bettes bosses are supposed to come see the paintings. Thats why I have all the finished ones set up like I do.
You want help?
Nah, Alex said, stopping to look at me. You go ahead back in and start getting ready. Dont you have practice today?
No, I called in sick last night. I didnt want to leave you alone. Alex smiled and went back to cleaning. Ill go make us some breakfast. Alex stopped, her head whipping around to look at me, fear in her eyes. Im not that bad of a cook. Alex quirked an eyebrow in my direction. Okay, okay. I meant I was going to Burger Kind anyway. Does this door really open? I asked, pointing to a door in the new wall.
As long as its not blocked by anything on the other side. I nodded and tried to open the door by pulling it towards myself. Try pushing. I blushed as I pushed the door open and walked into the other half of the garage. I could hear Alex chuckling until I got in my car and closed the door.