She’d never been a loner, nor had she been much of a brooder in the past. When she was troubled, she went out, saw people. Bought things, gave a party.

Zoe’s request for an all-nighter gave Malory the push to do all of that. She bought food and pretty new candles with citrusy scents. And fragrant soaps and fussy new guest towels, then some good wine.

She cleaned the apartment she’d been neglecting, spilled spicy potpourri into bowls. And groomed herself in the meticulous way that women groomed for other women.

By the time Dana arrived, she had cheese and fruit and fancy crackers set out, the candles lit and music set on low.

“Wow, pretty elegant around here. I should’ve dressed up some.”

“You look great.” Determined to be cheerful, Malory leaned in to kiss Dana’s cheek. “I appreciate you guys doing this.”

“Doing what?”

“Hanging out with me, giving me a boost. I’ve been feeling down the last couple of days.”

“None of us figured on the energy drain this deal would be.” She passed Malory a grocery bag, then set down her overnight case. “I bought extra supplies. Wine, Cheez-Its, chocolate truffles, and popcorn. You know, the four basic food groups.” Dana flipped through the movie selection next to the entertainment center. “Did you rent every chick flick ever made?”

“Every one currently available on DVD. How about some wine?’

“You don’t have to twist my arm. New perfume?”

“No, must be the candles.”

“Nice. That’s Zoe. Better pour another glass.”

Zoe came in through the patio doors, loaded down with bags. “Cookies,” she said a little breathlessly. “Videos, aromatherapy, and coffee cake for the morning.”

“Nice job.” Dana took one of the bags from her and handed her a glass of wine. Then she leaned closer and said, “How do you get your lashes to look like that? All sooty and spiky?”

“I’ll show you. This is fun. I went by the house today to do some measuring and to look at some samples there in the space and light. I’ve got wallpaper books and paint chips in the car if we want to look later. Bradley Vane caught me while I was there. What’s his story?”

“Golden boy with a social conscience.” Dana attacked the Brie. “Star athlete, high school and college. Track a specialty. Honor student but not a nerd. Semi-engaged a couple of times, but always managed to wiggle out before it stuck. Been friends with Flynn just about from birth. Excellent body, which I’ve been fortunate enough to see through various stages. Interested in seeing it yourself?”

“Not that way. I haven’t had much luck with men, so the only one who’s going to be in my life for the time being is Simon. Oh, I love this song.” She slipped out of her shoes to dance. “So, Mal, how’s it going with Flynn?”

“Well, I love him, so it’s pretty irritating. I wish I could dance like that.”

“Like what?”

“All long legs and loose hips.”