Hello? Marina didnt know what to say. Hello? came Cecilias voice again.

Hello Cecilia, Marina said finally.

Marina! You could hear the excitement in Cecilias voice as she realized who it was on the phone.

I hope Im not calling at a bad time, Marina said nervously.

No of course not. I was just getting ready for bed. Cecilia paused a moment. Did you get my letter?

Yes I have it right here. They were both as nervous as school girls talking to their first big crush and it took a moment before either of them could speak.

Im so glad you called your voice is just as affective over the phone as it is in person, Cecilia finally said.

I can say the same about yours. How have you been? Marina asked as she sat back in her chair.

Miserable, was Cecilias fast reply.

Are you alright? Marina asked immediately concerned.

Physically yes. Emotionally and spiritually no. Im sorry I didnt tell you I was leaving before we Marina cut Cecilia off.

No Im sorry. I shouldnt have reacted the way I did. In your letter you asked me to forgive you theres nothing to forgive. I think we both made some mistakes that day. And I think that I have something I should tell you too. Marina stopped speaking. I cant tell her about Francesca not yet, she thought to herself.

Hello Marina? Are you still there? Cecilia asked when the silence stretched a bit too long.

Yes yes I am. What I wanted to say is that youre right.

Right about what? Cecilia wanted to hear Marina say it.

Youre right about me feeling the same way.

I am?

Yes Ive been thinking about you too, Marina said softly into the mouthpiece.

And what have you been thinking? Cecilias voice had taken on a teasing tone and Marina smiled.

Ive been wondering what it would have been like if I would have brought you home, she replied huskily.

Well I could tell you if youd like, Cecilia said still teasing. You dont think its too early in the relationship to have phone *****, do you?

Marina laughed. It may be we should stick to bathroom ***** for a while, she teased back. They both laughed a little more before Marina became serious again. Cecilia I, Marina struggled to voice what she was thinking. This isnt me.