Jill was sitting on the bus stop bench across from the library and wiping her nose with a tissue when she saw Maureen walking across the street toward her.

"Oh god," she half moaned, half croaked, shoving the tissue into her pocket and wiping at her eyes.  By then, Maureen was standing in front of her, looking down at her, a quizzical, kindly look on her face.

"Mind if I take a seat?" she asked softly.

"Sure," Jill said shakily, sliding over to make room.

For a moment, both were silent, looking a...