T INA didn’t remember getting home. She had taken a cab home to avoid any confrontation with Helena. Plus, she had needed to clear her head. Being so close to Bette, had driven her crazy. She was confused. Everything with Bette was confusing.  Was Bette just being interested because she was jealous or because she wanted her family back for real? Why was she coming to see her tomorrow? Tina took off her clothes and hung them up in the closet. She needed a hot bath. Something to take away the coldness that had nothing to do with the coldness of her skin. Tomorrow was too far away. It was going to be a long night.

“Hey” ,Tina said, as she opened the door. “You are early”

“What can I say, I was anxious to see you.’ Helena stepped inside and kissed Tina full on the lips. “After the way we left things last night, I was so glad when you called.”

I hope you still feel that way after I tell you why you are here  Tina muttered as she closes the door. “coffee?” she offered.

“Sure, thank you.” Helena said, and followed Tina into the kitchen.

Helena sat at the table while Tina poured the coffee. Tina noticed how very nervous Helena was. She kept wringing her hands together.  “I bet you’re anxious to know why I called you here. Right?”. Tina said as she handed Helena the cup.

“I’m very curious, but I think I have a very good idea.” Helena took a sip of the coffee and continued. “I know it has to have something to do with last night and the reason I went home alone and you taking a cab home.”

Tina pulled out a chair and sat down. “You are right. It has to do with last night”

“There’s no easy way to say this Helena, so I’ll just get to the point. You, me…” Tina moves her hands between her and Helena for emphasis. “it’s not working.”

Helena had suspected that this was the turn the conversation would take after Tina’s behavior last night and the early phone call this morning. But she still wasn’t prepared to hear it .

"So," Helena said , "Are you dumping me?"