Soon enough tables were starting to clear and Lena glanced at her watch, surprised at finding the night had swiftly gone and they were well into the early hours of the morning.  The group made their way into the lobby, and she said a few goodbyes to people she knew as the guests made their way to the revolving doors.  They stood outside as ushers waved in an onslaught of cabs.

“Well ladies, I have enjoyed my evening immensely” said Richard, giving them a wide smile “Thank you for your company”

He gave Lena a warm bear hug, which she returned, before straightening out his suit jacket.

“”It was great to see you Rich,” she said, as he leaned down and gave her a kiss on both cheeks. “Give me a call, ok”

Richard nodded with a smile and turned to the others as Lena said goodbye to Marie.

“And it was nice meeting you Marie” she said turning with a smile to Marie

“You too Lena” replied Marie warmly, before they gave exchanged a friendly air kiss on both cheeks.

“Ladies”

Richard gave a slight bow to all, before slipping an arm around Marie’s waist.  Marie gave them all a farewell smile and they turned making their way along the exiting road, soon caught in other wandering bodies going off in search of hailing their own cabs rather than waiting at the hotel.

“A cab for six ladies?” asked a nearby usher politely

“If there’s one available” replied Bette

“Right over there Ma’am” replied the Usher, pointing to a mini van a few cars along the forecourt

“Thank you” replied Bette as the group made their way along the path to the cab

They piled in and gave the driver the addresses; he slowly drove out of the hotel drive and made his way to Alice’s apartment first.

“Wow what a night” said Dana, propping her head tiredly against the headrest.  Alice leaned her head on her shoulder

“Yup what a night” she agreed with a smile

“Thanks for the invitation,” said Tina to Lena, who was sat in the seat in front of her next to Shane. 

Lena shifted in her seat and turned to look back at Tina and Bette.