As if on cue, Carmen played the last song for the night. A slow number to signal this was the end. The crowd, after a night of intense and gratifying music, applauded and cheered their appreciation for Carmen. Carmen smiled widely around and waved shyly at the crowd.

Shane beamed once again, wearing the that’s-my-girl-and-I-am-so-proud-of-her look on her face. Carmen turned and favored Shane with a smile before turning back to her adoring crowd. Shane lifted her bottle and cheered for Carmen as well.

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As the crowd dispersed, Carmen packed her equipment and CDs while Shane watched on patiently. Kit came over and gave both of them a big hug.

“Phew! What a night!” Kit expressed in exhaustion.

“Ha-ha Kit, I have never seen the Planet rocking like that before.”

“Man! You’re telling me girl. I am whooped. And this is all thanks to Carmen and her great music.” Kit praised appreciatively. Carmen smiled shyly as she put away the last of her CDs.

“Well, why don’t you two run along. Gigi and the others could take care of the rest. You two have some unfinished business, and I ain’t gonna keep you from finishing it.” Kit shooed them jokingly.

“You sure Kit? I mean, I could stay and help. You all must be really tired from all that hectic mess.” Carmen offered. She knew she was stalling for time. The truth was, she wasn’t sure of her feelings and she wasn’t sure of the massive change in Shane.

“Sure sureyou girls head on out.” Kit pulled Carmen into an embrace and whispered into her ear.

“Don’t think that I didn’t see it, baby girl. I saw your tears and I had wanted to talk with you after we closed. But Shane is here now, so you go along and have your little talk.”

“Thank you, Kit.” Carmen hugged Kit closer to her.

“And you remember now. I will always be here if you need me. And I am prepared to whoop Shane’s sorry ***** if she ever hurts you.” Kit promised.

Carmen smiled appreciatively and pecked Kit on the cheek, holding her tight for a moment before releasing her. They both glanced at Shane who was staring at them with an amused look on her face. Carmen and Kit shared a secret look before bursting out with laughter, leaving poor Shane confused.

Kit stepped away, barking orders teasingly at her staff, laughing as she went along. Carmen looked at Shane and her laughter died. They locked gaze for a moment, both suddenly apprehensive about the inevitable. Shane extended her hand, gazing at Carmen, hoping Carmen would take it. Carmen hesitated for a beat before taking Shane’s hand, allowing her to lead her out of the Planet.

Amidst the laughing and the teasing with her staff, Kit saw Shane leading Carmen out of the Planet and she smiled.