"Is that why you’re out of breath?" Tina asked hopefully.

"I actually just came back from a run."  Bette filled a glass with water and walked back toward the living room. 

"A run?  Have you started running again?"

Bette cursed under her breath.  She had been keeping her running schedule from Tina. For one reason or another, she had neglected to tell Tina of her new endeavor.  Bette wanted to surprise the blonde with her new found stamina, in more ways than one.

"A run from the store, actually.  A store run.  To pick up some things for dinner, you know."

"Uh huh," Tina laughed, "So what is dinner for this evening?  Take out or carry in?"

"Very funny, Kennard,"  Bette took a moment to collect herself, not sure if she could pull off the next statement without her voice giving way to emotion, "I miss you."

Tina could hear the seriousness in Bette’s tone and it upset her,

"I miss you too, baby.  Things have been a little crazy around here to say the least but I might be able to steal away for a weekend late next month."

"Next month?"  Bette frowned.

"I know.  I was hoping for sooner but Aaron has me on a short leash right now and I…"

"It’s okay, Tina.  You don’t have to explain.  I understand.  I do, really.  I’m just disappointed.  I wish I could take some time off to see you, it’s just not possible."  Bette sighed, thinking it best to change the subject,

"Well, what are you up to?  Do you have some time to talk?"

"Actually I have a meeting with a Nikki Stevens and I’m just now pulling in to the restaurant."

"Nikki Stevens, huh?"

"You know of her?"

"Practically every boy in my class has her picture plastered on their binders.  She’s attractive, I guess"

"Yeah, I guess – if you like dumb, talent less actresses."

Bette laughed, "So you are not a fan?"

"Not in the least.  I ‘m into older women."  Tina leaned back on her headrest and conjured up a picture of Bette.  Naked.  In her bed.  She could feel her heart rate increase immediately.

"Older women?  Really?"

"Yup.  Tall, brunette.  Beautiful brown eyes with the most amazing sun-kissed skin"

Bette could hear the smile in Tina’s voice. "Sounds like you have someone in mind," Bette toyed.

"I do.  In fact, she’s been on my mind every minute of every day."  Tina was quiet for a moment, "God, Bette, I can’t stop thinking about you."

"Me, too."  Bette stared out her front window and saw a familiar car come into view. Her stomach rolled and she felt nearly certain she was going to be sick.

Tina got out of her car and walked toward Nikki’s table, "Can I call you later?  Will you be up?"

Bette rushed her goodbye, anxious to prepare herself for her un-welcomed guest,

"Yeah, sure.  I’ll talk to you soon.  I love you."

Tina heard the dial tone before she could respond.