I dial Bette first.

“Hey, Bette, they left. Can you come? Yeah – thanks – so much.”

I want to talk more to her, listen to her voice, but I don’t have the time. Bette has called Shane already to warn her and now I dial her number.

“They left, can you come and get me? Thanks.”

I hesitate – should I take my cellphone? I can hear my mom rambling about how irresponsible it is and why do I have a cellphone if I don’t use it and she can’t reach me, but on the other hand it would mean she would know I went to her room to come and get it and that won’t please her either. So I just take it with me.

When I come downstairs, Bette is already there. I’m just wondering how she got here so quickly when I see the car.

She beams. “My sister gave me permission to use it. Now, where does all this go?”

“In the garden house, doesn’t really matter how. Ken will check it, I guess.”

“Great.”

I’m just about to help Bette put the things away when Shane arrives.

“Jump in, Kennard.”

“Bye, Bette!” I yell and wave, she flashes that Porter smile back. Oh wow.

“Close your mouth, you’re starting to drool,” Shane dryly says.

I punch her playfully and get in. Then I know what’s missing in the plan.

“Shit! I don’t have any clothes!”

“Damn! Uhm… aren’t you about Alice’s size?”

“I dunno – I guess – but I don’t wanna wear the gal’s clothes!”

“She has some good stuff for the gig, Tina, it’s better than what you’re wearing now.”

“I guess.”

So we head off to Alice’s.

Bette Porter

After everything is put away, I get back in the car. My heart is pounding – what if the neighbours saw me? Don’t think of that, Bette.

I decide to go to Shane’s, but nobody’s home. Alright, Al’s then. When I get there, I see Shane’s car. I ring the bell and Alice opens the door.

“Porter!” She shrieks. “What are you doing here?”