Sally was surprised to find Anna and Meredith sitting together on the sofa. Anna actually had her arm around Meredith's shoulder.

Anna was less than pleased to see Sally at that particular moment, but then again, maybe her thoughtless buoancy would help the situation. Anna felt lost. There was, after all, nothing she could really do.

"Hi Meredith," said Sally, trying to seem unconcerned with the fact that she was obviously interrupting something. Meredith looked like she had been crying and was now somewhat embarrased. "How are you?"

"Umm, I'm fine," said Meredith. "How are you?"

"Good," said Sally. "That is, a little hungover. I mean..." She trailed off. The room was just too uncomfortable.

"Well, I really should be going," said Meredith. "I've got a lot to do this weekend." She turned towards Anna. "Thanks," she said meaningfully.

"Don't mention it," said Anna, trying to smile encouragingly. She managed better than she thought she did. With a wave Meredith was gone. The door closed on the sound of her boots echoing through the stairwell.

"What was that all about?" asked Sally.

"Oh, nothing," said Anna, getting up from the sofa as though all her joints creaked. "Let's have some lunch."

"Umm, actually," Sally was feeling a distinct need to get out of the apartment. "I think I'm going out for lunch."

"All right, I'll see you later," said Anna, too preoccupied to really notice. All she really felt like doing was going to her room and curling up on her bed to cry. But she should do something. Make lunch. She turned towards the kitchen. Of course, if Sally was going out, that meant she would be alone with Ted.

Sally watched without moving as Anna walked into the kitchen, and then turned to the phone.