"Easier said than done," Adia says with a small, wry smile. But it's easier here, in the company of a friend, to look at her own fears from afar without stressing about them.

"I'll be right back." She stands and heads for the dessert section; their waitress will come by and clear plates and refill drinks as needed. When Adia returns, she is holding a slice of strawberry cheesecake. "They didn't have too much. Just this and some pie. But I spotted a few dinner mints by the door, I'm going to take some of those for Maggie when we're done."