They all three head downstairs to the hospital cafeteria.  Bette gets three coffees and brings them to the table.

“So what happened with your dad?” she asks Tina.

Tina looks to her mother to explain.

“The doctor said he had an anxiety attack.  He’s been very stressed at work.”

“The symptoms do mimic those of a heart attack,” Bette tells Tina.

Susan is watching Bette, trying to figure out how she would know that.  Tina sees her confusion and explains.

“Bette is trained to treat the patients after she rescues them from the water.”

Susan nods, understanding.

“So Bette, how long have you been a rescue swimmer?”

“Ten years as a swimmer, fifteen total with the coast guard.”

“I see.  How’s Dana?”  Her mother looks to Tina.

“She’s great.  Speaking of her, I should call her and tell her about daddy.”  She takes out her cell phone.  “Do you mind?”  She looks at Bette as she starts to get up from the table.

“Of course not,” Bette answers her.  Tina steps away from their table to call Dana.

“Bette” Susan gets her attention as Bette watches Tina.

“How long have you been seeing my daughter?”

“A couple of weeks.”  Bette is wondering where this is going.

“And how long have you been in love with Tina?”

Bette is shocked at the question, but recovers quickly.  “Since the first moment I met her.”

Susan smiles at her.  “You’ll find I’m a very direct woman.”

“Right with you there Mrs. Kennard,” Bette answers just as directly.

“So don’t be put off or offended by that.  I mean no harm.  It’s just that if I want to know something, I ask, I don’t beat around the bush or play games.”

“Fair enough.”  Bette valued honesty more than any other quality.  “So you want to know what my intentions are toward your daughter?” she half-joked.

“Sure, though I think I already know.”

“I love Tina more than anything.  And my intentions are nothing but honorable.” Bette’s tone was as serious as she could be.

“I knew that.  I could tell.  You’ll find I’m very good at reading people.”