Jane and Mina - 1:30 a.m.
Jane listened to the pretty brunette, clearly amused by their conversation. There was something sort of adorable about Mina's proper and impressive vocabulary mixed with the languid, tipsy cadence of her voice.
"Well, if you're ready to go, I'm sure your old man would appreciate it if you left in a relatively orderly fashion. But, I mean, if you want to kick something over on your way out, I'll cover for you."
Now that Mina was was decided on her departure, Jane considered the merits of staying at the party without her and found the advantages decidedly lackluster.
"Nah, let's blow this popsicle stand," Jane said resolutely. "And of course I'll walk you home. Not that I don't think you can handle the whatever obstacles are between here and your place, of course. Just paying you back for keeping me sane all night. Hang tight, I'll let your parents know we're heading out and I'll be right back."
Jane had had half a slightly sour beer left, which she chugged. After making sure that Mina would be okay for a minute, she located Mariah in the sea of bodies and let her know she was walking her stepdaughter home. The lovely hostess gave her a a tight embrace and thanked her for coming. Jane returned the hug with equal enthusiasm, promising Mariah she'd talk to her soon.
"Alright, pretty lady," Jane said, threading her arm through Mina's. "Let's bounce."