‘Yeah. And that money is so necessary. Few of my acquintances would go into charity work, since it means earning nothing.’ Tina agreed, dismissed the thought with a wave of her head. ‘Of course, the only reason I can do this is because Bette’s the breadwinner–’

‘But it wouldn’t hurt anybody if they dedicated one hour of their days into helping others.’ The Italian completed, had often done some charity work herself.

‘Exactly.’ T. nodded, beamed as she imagined a planet Earth where humans were open to that possibility.

‘Believe me, I’d be there with you if CAC and everything else in my life didn’t make me pass out by the end of the day.’ Porter said. Actually, she had considered joining her girlfriend, hoping that the extra time together would help them get closer. And that aiding people in need would soothe her frayed, guilty mind.

‘Everything else in your life?’ Ms. Kennard queried, chuckled, eyes wide in surprise.

‘You know what I mean. Taking care of Kit, yoga, workout, watching over my sister–’

‘That’s the second time you’ve mentioned it.’

‘Might as well say it a third, since it does require many extra hours of my day. Helping her successfully manage The Planet isn’t as easy as it seems and I thought, but then she’s never owned a business before.’ Bette complained.

‘Don’t you worry about it, Marina.’ Tina said before the Italian could voice her question. ‘It’s always packed, the same as when you were the one who kept it running. Though we awfully miss your presence in there.’ She made a sandwich, scarfed it down.

‘Don’t you want some coffee to go with it? Belinda can bring it in a second.’ The hostess asked, amazed at the speed that the blonde ate.

‘No need, I’m done. If you excuse me, I have to go brush my teeth and apply some make-up.’ She darted back upstairs, left the two women dumbfolded with her energy.

‘That’s what I call antsy.’ Bette commented, drank her coffee. ‘Could you give her a ride?’

　

　

Tina was dropped out in front of an ancient-looking, medium-height, faded brown building. The windows were rectangular, modern ones, whereas the door was wide and made of dark, polished wood. It had figures and undecipherable symbols carved on its’ frame and the knob was golden, heavy, inspired respect,