“I brought the pictures you wanted to see.” Karen pulled an envelope out of her backpack and presented it to Monica. As Karen zipped up the pocket, Monica opened the folder and pulled out the first picture.

“Oooh, this one’s nice,” she purred, tilting her head to one side.

“You like it?” Karen asked, nervously peering over her shoulder.

“Yeah, but the contrast’s a little high.”

Karen sighed and shook her head with a sad smile. “That’s what Dave said, but everyone else…” Karen shrugged and Monica took out the next photograph.

“Aw, a kitty!” Monica smiled and stroked the picture as if hoping to feel the forgiving softness of the cat’s fur. Instead, there was only the cold, smooth photo paper and the realistic image before her. She glanced at her watch and hastily shoved the picture back into the folder with the others. “I’ll have to look at the rest later, we’re gonna be late.”

“Oh crap, it’s already seven. I was sposed to go early and help set up.”

The two set out towards the coffee shop at a brisk pace, hoping they would somehow be on time to the open mic, knowing already that this was impossible.

“Thank god you got Beth to do that assignment.”

“Yeah, Stan would’ve made me do it even if it cut into my time with you.”

“I can’t fuckin stand him,” Monica growled, giving the ground a dirty look.

“I can’t believe you guys hate each other so much.”

“We don’t hate each other, he hates me.” Monica gave Karen a defiant look, as if challenging her to continue her friendship with Stan.

“I know he can be difficult, but… oh, I don’t know.” Karen shoved her hands into her pockets and stuck out her lower lip.

“Baby, don’t get that way.” Monica wiggled her hand into the pocket too and walked closer to Karen. “Come on. I know, I’ll pose for that body assignment you guys have to do for class! You want me to?”

“Well, can’t say no to that,” Karen mumbled, entwining her fingers with Monica’s. Monica grinned.

“Good. We’re even, then. No more pouting about having to shoot something boring? Or about how your friends never get along with your girlfriends? Or about–”

“Yeah, yeah, okay, okay. Got it, no pouting.” Karen grinned. “Hey, and now you owe me help with the body assignment! I just can’t lose.”

“Neither can I,” Monica whispered. They held hands the whole way to the open mic, talking about photography and plans for the future. A tiny sliver of a moon shone through even the stormy clouds covering the night sky, and Karen gazed at it silently before turning to Monica in fascination.

“Look at that, look at it! It’s so pretty.”

Monica smiled up at the tiny moon and turned to Karen. “Still pretty even though a sky of ugliness surrounds it, baby. Still pretty and still shines on.”