“Yeah, I know, but I would rather to be later, so I can be more sure and prepared.”

            “Did you talk with her about that?”

            “Well, she was very supportive but I know she was upset.”

            “It’s natural she can think you are not sure about your feelings. I think you should talk about your fears with her and if you are afraid of her reaction why not to talk first with someone who can understand both of you and being impartial?”

            “Like Alice?”

            “Yes, she’s bisexual and Bette’s friend and she has your age so it wasn’t that long ago she came out.”

            “Maybe you’re right I will call Alice first thing in the morning.”

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            The next day Tina and Alice met for lunch. Tina explained her doubts and was relieved to notice how understandable Alice could be.

            “Well TK, I know that’s not what you want to hear, but Bette it’s a out and proud lesbian and almost a myth in our community, it’s kind of hard to be with her and not being out, unless you avoid all the good places in WeHo. But if it serves as a solace, Bette can be a pain in the ass but I know she understands you and she really loves you. I never saw Bette act the way she acts around you and much less to fly half world to say how she feels about someone.”

            “I know she has been wonderful. I don’t want her hurt or disappointed but I’m not ready to be with Bette Porter, a myth.”

            “Well don’t be then asked her to go slowly I can’t say I really understand your difficulty to come out because I grew up here, between artists and my mother well she’s kind of crazy and eccentric and I came out in college during a show with my band it was pretty cool but Bette will understand it for sure, her family isn’t a easy one and she grew up to be the best and fulfill all her dad’s expectations.”

            “I will talk with her when I come back. I will need to make a trip to Chicago to solve a problem with a script and I’m going in the end of the week. I think a few days away will help me to clear my thoughts and take the courage to talk with Bette.”

            “Great take your time” answered Alice. Meanwhile I will convince Porter to share her come out history with you and erase your doubts.

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            As predicted Tina flew to Chicago on Thursday. She and Bette kept contact via internet and telephone the whole week Tina stayed there. The Friday of the next week Tina returned to Los Angeles. Since she took an early flight and it was yet 9:00 pm when she arrived, she thought about doing a surprise to Bette and wasn’t surprised herself to find Bette still in the gallery since it was left only one week until the opening. She introduced herself again to Bette’s assistant, Kelly and went to Bette’s office.

            “Hey sweetie” greeted Tina

            “Hi, Tee What a surprise I thought I would see you only tomorrow” said Bette and kissed Tina gently on the lips.

            “I hope it’s a good surprise Are you busy?”

            “No, not at all.”

            “Good, because I need talk with you.”

             “I need have a serious talk with you too.”