Tina slumped on Shanes couch after she had concluded the planned events for the evening, thinking that she had actually managed to go the whole day, till then, without even thinking about Bette. Tina knew this relationship with Stephanie was only new, but it was full of promise, Well if anyone can get me over Bette Porter, Dr Stephanie Hunter can Tina thought, although she knew she was a long way off being over Bette Porter unsure if she ever would be..

TBC

Chapter 22

Bette arrived at Shanes promptly at 5pm, dropping off Jack. Unaware of Tinas presence she didnt stay, needing to return home to ready herself for the evening ahead. Bette kissed Jack goodbye and gave Shane the quick rundown like she always did, then she was gone.

Tina was in the shower, when Bette dropped Jack off, preparing for and eagerly anticipating her own date for the evening.

Shane hadnt informed Tina of her baby-sitting duties for the night, figuring Tina may be already out when Jack arrived, and if she managed to make it back there overnight, she would find out then.

A smile graced Shanes lips after Bette left, knowing Tina would be pleasantly surprised seeing the little man before she went out on her date.

Tina had heard muffled voices coming from the lounge room, while the steady stream of warm water cascaded down her body, but she just assumed it was Shane and Toni talking.

A few minutes later Tina completed her shower and slipping a towel around her damp hair and her white robe loosely over her body, she ventured out into the lounge room to attain her clothes.

As soon as she entered the room her eyes were immediately drawn to the little man, Jack Porter, who was happily sitting next to his Aunty Shane on the couch.

Tinas heart melted; right then and there; her body letting out an involuntary sigh, at the sight of her son, how she desperately wished he were really her son.

Tina just stood still and observed Jack for a few minutes. He was immersed in the T.V and didnt notice Tina standing there carefully watching him.

Tina noticed Jack was such a gorgeous, happy, little boy, full of energy and he had so many traits that resembled Bette, little mannerisms that made Tina immediately think of his mommy, which proved to endear him to Tina even more.

For a split second she wished she hadnt even been told about Jack being her son, about the situation pertaining to his arrival into this world, but one quick glance at him well and truly erased that thought.

It made things even harder though, especially now, seeing as she had reached a decision that afternoon about her life and where she was going to reside.

She planned to inform Stephanie that night on their date, and her L.A. family the following day.

Tina looked at the clock on top of the T.V. and realised she had hour to spare. A smile formed across her lips while she was thinking to herself, there was no better way to spend that time, than getting to know a little bit about this little man in front of her.

Tina hastily went back into the bathroom and put on a pair of Jeans and a wife beater and made her way back out to Shane and Jack.

Tina cautiously looked at Shane, Do you mind if I join you two?

Shane moved over, making a spot for Tina right next to Jack, Noof course not, come and sit Tina! patting the empty spot on the couch between her and Jack.

Shane looked down at Jack, smiling, Jack, do you remember who this is? as Tina sat next to him.

Jack took one look at Tina and smiled a big toothy grin. That was all it took to completely disarm Tina. Tears welled quickly in her eyes, a stray one slowly trickling down her cheek.

Jack: I wemmmembber. Awnty Shane, Thats Tweena, mommys friend that playd wif me at the park!

Shane: (whispering to Tina, so Jack couldnt hear) Wow. Tina!!! He never remembers anyones name after only meeting them once, you must have made quite an impression?

Looking down at Jack who was holding his hands out to be picked up, Tina scooped him up putting him on her lap, Yeah well Shane, he certainly made an impression on me!! smiling broadly back at Jack.

Tina: Hey kiddo, how are you today?

Jack: (jumping up and down in Tinas lap)GoodTweena!

Tina began quietly conversing and playing with Jack, enjoying the simple pleasure of getting to know the little boy, after all this time, who wouldve been undoubtedly the apple of her eye, if things were different.

Shane: Tina, I need to go and make his dinner. Itll only take about 10 minutes. Can you watch him for me?

Tinas eyes remained focused on Jack, her date at that moment a distant thought, Itd be my pleasure, Shane!!

Shane got up and went into the kitchen, having observed the interaction between Tina and Jack, thinking to herself, he may very well be the key to Bette and Tinas future.

Shane decided to hide out in the kitchen for a while, giving Tina a little extra time with her son, knowing shed appreciate it.

So Tina spent the next hour or so playing with Jack, laughing and talking with him. Jack was a very intelligent 3- year old; some of the phrases he was coming out with made Tina laugh, genuinely laugh, maybe for the first time since she had woken up. Parts of their conversations made him sound like a grown up, Thatd be right, wouldnt expect anything less from the Bette Porter genes. Tina thought to herself smiling.

Shane returned to the lounge room hour later, with dinner for the little man, realizing Tina had better finish getting ready for her date.

Tina glanced at the clock, when Shane re-entered the room, having lost all track of time, *****, I got to be out of here in 10 minutes

Tina got up, hastily grabbing her clothes and returned to the bathroom. She dressed in her full length, black, spaghetti strap dress, tying her hair up in a loose bun, letting strands of her golden locks drop to the sides of her cheeks, enhancing her facial features.

Tina applied some light make up, and after glancing quickly in the mirror, grabbed the basket and was ready to head out the door.

She stopped momentarily, re-entering the lounge room.

Tina: (picking Jack up and giving him a tight hug) It was great to see you again Jack. I hope Ill see you again.. really soon my little man!

Jack hugged Tina tightly, he could smell Tinas perfume, You smell nice, Tweena.

Tina: (thinking to herself What a little charmer) Thankyou kiddonow you be good ok.

Jack: Ok, bye, bye.

Tina walked out of Shanes and jumped in her car to pick up Stephanie, with a permanent smile plastered all over her face



Tina arrived at Stephanies room gently knocking at 2 minutes to 6. Stephanie answered almost immediately smiling warmly at Tina, looking her up and down in appreciation.

Stephanie: (staring longingly at Tina) WowTina, you look.(sincerely)you take my breath away!

Tinas eyes showed the same appreciation of Stephanies appearance. Wearing a pair of fitted black pants and a classic white shirt unbuttoned at the top 3 buttons, with her hair flowing freely down her back, Stephanie looked stunning.

Tina: Mmm..You look amazing too. leaning in giving her a light kiss on the lips.

Stephanie grabbed a single red rose from behind her back, presenting it to Tina, 1 rose for 1 very first dateI think thats a fair price, the doc. joked.

Tina: (still smiling) AwwwThank youbut what if we go on 100 dates, does that mean I get 100 Roses.

Stephanie pulled Tina in for a warm hug, lets just get through one first!! smiling happily.

Tina: Ok lets goI hope you like Chinese. I made reservations at my favourite Chinese place.

Stephanie, Sure! grabbing her bag and closing the door behind her.

While the two women were waiting for the elevator Tina habitually grabbed Stephanies hand in her own, without even thinking. It had been a long time since she had been out on a date.

Stephanie looked at her funny. Tina noticed and looked down, realised what she done, immediately removing her hand, UmSorry!!

Stephanie grabbed Tinas hand back in her own, Dont be silly, Id love to hold your hand, any part of you for that matter (winking) .I just wondered if you knew what you were doing.

Tina looked at Stephanie, Honestly it was out of habit(shyly) I havent dated for a while!!

Stephanie: (smiling warmly) Its ok!!! as the elevator arrived and the were on their way.

Tina and Stephanie arrived at Jimmy Wongs Chinese Restaurant about 20 minutes later, hand in hand, and were seated at a remote booth Tina had requested, in the back of the restaurant



Bette and Kristie had arrived at the same restaurant 15 minutes earlier, and were quietly conversing, sipping their champagne. They were seated at an intimate table for two against a sidewall of the restaurant that overlooked the entire floor.

Bette noticed the minutemaybe even the second that Tina walked through the door. Her heart skipped a beat, as she heard Tinas unmistakable laugh while her and the doctor sauntered past their table.

Up until then for the entire evening, Bette was so attentive, thoughtful and loving to Kristie. Kristie felt like she was the only woman in the room; that her and Bette were in their own little world. That was exactly what Kristie needed, to feel loved and special, becoming surer by the minute that Bette really did make the decision she wanted to.

Kristie noticed the immediate change in Bettes demeanour. Following Bettes eyes she observed the cause of that change and it broke her heart

Bette composed herself and decided the best plan of attack was denial, looking at Kristie, seeing the disappointment in her eyes, she almost begged, lets get out of here sweetie!!

Kristie thought to herself, Ok, the initial reaction was not good, lets give Bette the benefit of the doubt; lets see how she handles it all night, whether she can remain focused on me and our relationship!! Kristie wanted to subject Bette to a test to see if she could concentrate on her while Ms Tina Kennard was around.

Kristie took Bettes hand in her own, Its ok baby, this place has the best food in town. I want to stay!

Kristie carefully watched every expression that appeared on Bettes face, (downcast) Ok then.

Meanwhile Tina and Stephanie were seated and had ordered their food; each sipping a glass of white wine, so consumed in their conversation that they were not aware of Bette and Kristies appearance at the restaurant. The two women were talking intimately, and laughing with each other, their hands finding each others tenderly across the table between courses.

After the entre, Tina knew it was time to inform Stephanie of her decision, (seriously, looking into her eyes) Listen Steph, I have decided…………… to return to San Francisco with you. I can stay at my mums for a while and see how us go……..(looking hopefully at Stephanie) what do you think?

Stephanie: (grinning from ear to ear) I think that would be AMAZING Tina. are you sure you can sort things out here by then(seriously staring into Tina’s eyes) this is what you want??

Tina: (genuinely smiling) Yes. I really think it is! squeezing Stephanies hand.

Bette was beside herself; she couldnt help but glance in Tinas direction every few minutes. She couldnt hear what they were saying, but every time Bette saw Tina and her doc. touch, or laugh she would nearly choke on her dinner.

She was trying her darnedest to concentrate on the woman she loved right in front of her, conjuring up as much self-control as she could but the temptation was just too great. Every look, every glance, Kristie noticed and it hurt like *****!!

Tina and Stephanie enjoyed the food and wine immensely, and the company even more. Tina was enjoying the simplicity of this new relationship and was too consumed in her date to notice Bette staring at her on and off the whole time during dinner.

The two women decided against desert, Tina requesting the bill, which they paid and were on their way out of the restaurant. The night was still young and Stephanie had no idea what was coming next, but she was enjoying herself immensely.

Stephanie: (grinning) Ok Ms Kennard, what have you in store for us next?

Tina handed her ticket to the valet and turned wrapping her arms around Stephanies neck, (cheekily grinning) Youll just have to wait and see Dr. Hunter. wont you!! winking at Stephanie.

Stephanie: (engaging in playful banter) I dont know WHAT Im going to do with you!! bringing her lips lightly to Tinas.

Kristie and Bette walked out the doors just as Tina pulled away from the kiss. Bette froze. the realism of the situation hitting her. Kristie was extremely disappointed, and things were becoming worst by the second. Kristie was going to be having a serious discussion with her Bette when they got home!!!!

Tina: (cheekily) MmmmI could think of a few things still conversing with Stephanie, not noticing a shocked Bette only standing 15 feet away.

The valet pulled up with Tinas car, Stephanie and Tina jumped in and carefully pulled away. For some unknown reason, Tina felt the need to look back towards the restaurant.

She stopped for a moment and turned her head back smiling. The smile quickly dissipated and to her shock and discomfort she saw, standing there outside the restaurant, Bette Porter, her Bette with a look of utter DEFEAT on her face………….That was all it took, one look from Bette Porter and Tina Kennard was back at square one!!!!!!

Stephanie noticed Tinas discomfort and took her hand, (compassionately) What do you want to do babe? Im with you either way. I told you that!!!!

Tina: (frustrated) I really want to finish our evening. Nothings changed, Bette doesnt want me.I just need to try and get past this..past her, and (adamantly) Im still coming back to San Francisco with you!!!

Stephanie: (concern, mixed with disappointment in her voice) OkListen Tina, you let me know okfirst and foremost I am your friend!!!

Tina drove herself and Stephanie, in thoughtful silence, down to the beach. The evening was going so well, until she caught one glimpse of Bette. one goddamn glimpse was all it took.

Tina loved spending time with Stephanie, she knew she could be happy with her, she just had to figure out a way to get Bette out of her heart!!!!

Stephanie knew that Tina wasnt over Bette either, even before they agreed to date. She wasnt surprised at all the effect that Bettes appearance had on Tina; sure she was disappointed, but she wanted to be there for Tina in whatever capacity Tina needed her for.

However one thing was for sure, if Bette Porter was too blind to see just how special Tina really was, and Stephanie was lucky enough to get the opportunity, she would never make the same mistake, ever!!

Tina and Stephanie sat on the blanket, on the beach, wrapped snugly in each others arms. Both women lost in their own thoughts, comfortable in the others arms, looking out over the ocean and up at the stars, a perfect way to end a ‘not so perfect’ evening.

After sitting in relative silence, with hints of infrequent, quiet conversation, for a few hours Tina yawned and both women looked at each other deciding to call it a night; both women need to do a bit of thinking. Tina drove Stephanie back to her hotel, walking her up to her room.

Tina: (sincerely, taking Stephanies hands in her own) Thanks Steph, for everything. Tonight was amazing, and thanks for taking things slow(sadly) I just need to figure out what to do about my heart!

Stephanie: Tina Im right here, whenever you need me or want me okI can wait, or I can be your friend……It’s up to you!

Tina felt so much love for this woman standing in front of her, but was unsure if it was friend love or the kind of love that you could build a life around??

Tina leaned in and planted a slow, passionate kiss on Stephanies lips. Stephanie responded, she couldnt help it, but resisted the urge to deepen the kiss.

She pulled back smiling at Tina, Good night Tina. I had a great time!!!

Tina: (smiling back, trying to read Stephanies eyes) Me too Steph, Ill call you tomorrow ok! heading back to the elevator.

Stephanie closed the door behind her, feeling funny about the goodnight kiss they had just shared. She didnt experience the same feeling she had got on the previous occasions that she had kissed Tina and that confused her

Tina exited the hotel and jumped back in her car a little perplexed. She was feeling the same way about the goodnight kiss

Tina got to thinking, she was lost and lonely, and definitely felt something for Stephanie that previous night, but the spark seemed to be gone, there was no spark in that last kissTina did enjoy it, it just felt like something was missing. Maybe it was just a one off thing?? Tina hoped but she had other ideas.

One look from Bette Porter, and a memory of what love was all about, and Tina just seemed to be unable to bring herself, to settle for anything less, If thats the case, Im destined to spend my life alone Tina sadly thought, knowing she would never find love like that again.

She knew she really had to get out of L.A. if she were going to have any chance of a life with Stephanie or anyone else for that matter. She needed to put her plan to go back to San Francisco into action and soon, it was driving her crazy being so close to Bette and not being with her……not being wanted by her!!!

Tina entered Shanes apartment quietly, just after 1 am, making sure not to wake up Jack. She changed into her pyjamas and crawled under the blanket on the couch; quickly succumbing to some much needed sleep.



Shane awoke the next morning, wandering out to the lounge room, to check on her little guest, finding the peacefully sleeping Jack snuggled up in Tinas loving arms.

Jack mustve climbed out of his own little bed, when he heard Tina return the previous night and made his way across the room to find Tina, Like mother, like son. Shane thought.

While Shane was standing there in awe thinking how cute Jacks gesture was, there was a knock at the door. The sudden noise caused Tina to wake.

Tina groggily looked down at the little boy, wrapped snugly, warmly in her arms and she didnt dare move, her senses were overwhelmed, she couldnt help but cry

Shane went over and answered the door.

Tbc