“I cut people’s hair.”

            “A hairdresser? You know, I’ve been thinking about getting my hair cut short…what do you think?”

            Shane momentarily put down her book and studied Alex’s waterfall of golden hair. “I would never take scissors to that head of hair…it’s too stunning.”

            “Aw, you’re sweet,” said Alex. Shane grinned.

            “So what were you up to in San Diego? Any one night stands like Dana suspects?”

            “No,” Alex laughed. “Nothing like that. I was training dolphins at Sea World.”

            “Shit…you are just full of surprises, aren’t you?” Shane laughed, which made shivers rocket down Alex’s back. No, she told herself venomously. No more shivers, you got it? None.

            “Do you do your own hair?”

            “Mhmm…” Shane said, bookmarking the page she was on and setting the book on the end table that also separated the beds.

            “I love your hair.” Alex stood and sat at the head of Jenny’s bed on the side not occupied by her head. Without really thinking, she began to run her hand through the twenty-five year old’s hair. “So, do you have a girlfriend?” Alex couldn’t help herself. The question was obvious, but she needed to be reassured of the answer for reasons she didn’t quite understand.

            “Ha —I think we both know the answer to that query.” Shane gazed up at Alex, who was still toying with her hair, and smiled slowly. “I’ve had only one close one, but it didn’t work out. I was only in it because she was an amazing fucker, you know?”

            Alex smiled, supporting her head on her hand as she continued to comb Shane’s hair with her fingers. “Can I tell you a secret?” she whispered. “Can I trust you?”

            “I want you to,” Shane murmured back.

            “It’s a major secret, Shane. No one can know. Not even Dana. Should I tell you?”

            “I’d be honored if you would. And I swear I won’t tell a soul.”

            “Well…” Alex shifted uncomfortably. “For how ‘sexy’ everyone always says I am, I’ve never actually done it.”

            Shane’s face contorted into a half amused, half bewildered expression. “Wait…”

            “I’m a virgin.”

            “WHAT?” Shane whispered, her eyes wide. “Ha! Fuck! Really? No joke?”