‘So, should I answer Marina or have you already
done it?’

‘No, I was going to wait until social services
took you off the hook. We need to speak with the other girls and schedule our
departure.’

‘You are right, Bette. This will be such fun…’

Bette looked at her beloved with warm
tenderness. They had grown closer after a short period of distance, due to
Tina’s miscarriage and Bette’s ever-increasing job at CAC.

The time of distance had also been one of temptation
to Bette Porter. She’d met Candace and felt what at first seemed like an
irresistible pull, a force of nature that would bring them together.

She’d never thought of betraying Tina. Memories
of the blonde had been the last thread that held her self-control from
snapping, tearing into pieces.

Though Bette did sleep with Candace once, she’d
realized where her true love, home of her soul, was. This was the reason why
she’d been able to completely avoid the other woman and fall out of the curse
that’d bewitched, momentarily bonded her to another.

Tina had never found out, not even suspected it.
Actually, the blonde loved it when Bette became more affectionate, more
present, and turned into someone she could lean on for support.

During the earlier course of their long-lasted
relationship, it had always been the other way around: Tina was the one Bette
turned to whenever life was too difficult. Tina would listen attentively, give
advices, solace, soothe, be there.

This change had nourished the love between them,
the connection to each other. Never had they been so together, so
comprehensive.

As Tina switched the power off of her computer,
she wondered about that trip. It would be a good distraction to her woes, not
to mention a marvelous opportunity to visit another country. And, who knew,
maybe even learn a new language. Marina’s presence was always a delightful
thing as well. Tina usually felt somewhat calmer in her company.

Yes, really, what would be the harm?    

‘Bette?’ Tina called, a smile in both her voice
and lips.

‘Tell Marina that we will certainly be there.’

The brunette smiled, cheeks lifting. ‘Thanks,
honey. I will do just that.’ 

21:30, Dana’s place

‘Pookie, where ARE you?’

Tonya’s voice carried through the enormous
house, reached Dana in the bedroom upstairs.

‘In the bedroom, sweetie!’ Dana yelled back as
she checked her e-mails in a small, scarlet netbook.