“You really lost the plot this time round, Alice Pieszecki.”

Help catching Snappy would still be a good idea and with a big sigh, Alice looked up Helena’s home number, which she still had from the occasional call made to the residence when needing to contact Tina.

“Helena Peabody residence.”

“Helena?”

“Yes, who is this?” The voice sounded familiar to Helena but she was not quite sure so requested confirmation.

“Umm. It’s Alice Pieszecki. You know. Tina’s friend.” Alice replied in a quiet whisper to the slightly frosty tones.

“Alice. Yes, Tina and I are no longer seeing each other. She is not here.”

“Oh … yes. I know. I umm, I’m calling you.” Alice put forth in a tentative manner.

“Me? What can I do for you Alice?” Helena’s curiosity was piqued at why Alice would have a need to call her and why she would be whispering.

Helena actually liked the cute, yet quirky blonde. Not that Alice ever gave her the time of day being so wrapped up in her recent ex-partner Dana. Helena also received the distinct impression that Alice was not impressed with Tina over her relationship with Helena. Being a loyal friend to both Bette and Tina, Alice ignored any overture of friendship Helena had offered on the few joint outings they attended together. Helena actually admired Alice for this very fact even if it meant she was on the end of the cold shoulder, noticing how much it had hurt the blonde to be stuck in the middle of the two women as she obviously adored them both.

“Well. I have this pet turtle you see … and it has escaped. It is somewhere in my apartment”

“This has to do with me because?” Helena prompted.

“Oh. Um. I’m scared of it and I need help to catch it.”

“Let me get this right. You have a pet turtle you are scared of and I am assuming you called me to help you catch it?” A glint of humour brightened Helena’s eyes and warm humour entered her voice as she began to remember why she liked this funny woman.

“Oh fuck it. You’re laughing at me. It’s ok. It’s ok! Sorry to have called.”

“WAIT! Alice! No. I’m sorry. I won’t laugh. Promise. Don’t hang up.” Helena cajoled and made the decision right then and there to help.