Tina then surprisingly says, “Lets continue the conversation in the shower!   …  Did I just say that?  …   I’m sorry Bette.  I just blurted that out.  I’m so embarrassed!”  Bette laughs and then says, “If it will help you get ready for tonight.  It’s the least I can do!”  Bette then tickles Tina as they run to the shower.”   Tina is thinking to herself. “I guess we’re back together again.”

***

While they’re getting dressed, Tina says she’ll make them breakfast, and then they will make a to-do list for the day.  Bette agrees happily. Tina makes fluffy scrambled eggs, crisp bacon, and toast and coffee for breakfast.  They’re starving.

Tina says, “Okay Ms. Porter, what do you have planned on your agenda today?”    Bette replies assuredly. “ I’m going to bail out my poor Saab, and then we can leave for the beach.”  Tina asks. “Bette don’t you think you owe some people apologies?”

Bette looks confused.  Tina continues.  “Today I’m going to teach you self respect okay?  Bette are you going to do everything I ask you to do?”  Bette nods ‘Yes.’  Tina now explains the day’s proceeding.  “Bette the first thing I want you to do is to forgive yourself; and to do that you have to apologize for your actions.  We’ll first stop at the florist and buy flowers for Kit, and Bill the bartender.  Then you’ll order and personally deliver a goody basket of muffins, bagels and donuts to the Police Station.  I’ll loan you the money until you find your purse.  But you have to pay me back.  I’m not going to bail you out on this one.  Do you agree?”  Bette nods ‘Yes.’  Tina further explains.  “When you finish apologizing this matter is over.  It’s finished and you let it go.  You’ve paid your penitence you’ve suffered enough.  It becomes a non-issue.  The end.  Get it?  Okay we have a plan.”

Bette has a stunned expression on her face as she looks at Tina.  She can’t believe how forceful and so self-assured Tina is.  No one has ever talked to her this way.  Bette decides she likes it. Bette is thinking to herself, this must be what it’s like to have a mom who cares?  Bette feels good.