Tina just stared at the spot that Bette had been only a few moments earlier totally confused.

Shane came out of the kitchen, a perplexed look also on her face, What the ***** was that all about Tina?

Tbc

Chapter 24

Tina replied with a look of complete disappointment enveloping her face, shrugging her shoulders, I really have no idea Shane?

Tina kind of hoped that Bette was going home to sort out her current relationship, and then return to her to live happily ever after, but Tina wasnt nave and she knew Bette all too well; Bettes actions told her otherwise.

Tina was sure that Bette had raised her walls again. No matter how much someone changes, they cannot change their basic instincts, Tina thoughtand Bette Porters basic instincts were always the sameto shutdown and to RUN!!

Shane: (shaking her head in disbelief) Well.. what happened?

Tina: (perplexed) I dont know. She kissed me..(thinking) NO I wouldnt call it just a kiss, it was like .we reconnected (Tina had a starry look in her eyes as she reminisced about the incredible kiss they had just shared) but then she looked away from me, grabbed Jack and was out of here Shane.

Shane: (sympathetically) Godthat Bette of yours is so stubborn. too stubborn for her own good sometimes, she is so much like her father..I thought she had grown out of that(sighing) but I guess not. So what are you going to do Tina?

Tina: (adamantly) NothingAbsolutely nothing..Its up to Bette now, she knows how I feel and what I want.if she wants the same thing, shes going to have to fight for itIm done, and I told her as much too!!!!

Shane: (nodding) Good for you Tina..That might be the kick up the ***** Bette needs!

Tina: (hoping) Maybe?

Their conversation hit a lull for a few minutes, both women lost in their own niggling thoughts.

Tina suddenly became nervous, she needed to let Shane know that she was leaving for San Francisco on Saturday, she still needed to stick to her plans, she couldnt wait forever and at this time her future was extremely uncertain, (seriously) ShaneThankyou so much for letting me crash at your place. Im um.

Looking into Shanes kind, friendly, cool eyes Tina felt like she was leaving her all over again. She hoped that Shane didnt take it that way; it was just way too hard to stay here without her Bette.

Tina:.Im umleaving on Saturday; going back to San Francisco. I cant stay here without being with Bette without being with my family!especially now, knowing how she feels tooI just cant. Its too hard. I know she still loves me, but she has to decide her life for herself!!!

Shane: (smiling warmly) I understand TinaI hope Bette pulls her head out of her ***** before then, but if you do leave (staring at Tina with a grin on her face) make sure you stay in touch this time, alright my friend! walking over to envelop Tina in a tight hug.

Tina: (relieved, hugging Shane back) I willI promise, Thanks for understanding Shane!

Shane: So are you going to stay (raising her eyebrows) with the gorgeous Doctor Stephanie in San Francisco?

Tina: (saddened, just thinking of going back with no Bette and no Jack) Nowith my mom for a while until I figure out what to do with my life, I guess!

Realizing the time, Shane knew she had to get down to the salonShe was extremely late, Ok well Id better get down to work TinaAre you ok?. I mean, I could stay if you need me? genuinely concerned for her friend

Tina: No. Im okI need to go see Steph anyway! You go; you must be solate already!

Shane grabbed her keys and was swiftly walking out the door, OkTina, call me if you need anything!

Tina: Ok thanks Shane!

Shane left, leaving Tina alone with her thoughts!

She walked into the bathroom where she showered and changed, her mind still predominantly with Bette and the incredible kiss they had shared earlier that morning, Damnwhy do you have to be so stubborn Bette Porter? Tina thought to herself, sighing.

Tina did know one thing though; she was going to have to talk to Stephanie, and hope she felt the same way about their last encounter.

The last thing she ever wanted to do was hurt her dear friend and now she knew there was a chance with Bette, all be it a slight one, and that Bette still loved her, she could never contemplate being with anyone else..not for the now anyway.

Tina finished dressing, smart casual, she didnt want to give Stephanie the wrong impression and made her way over to the Hyatt.

Tina knocked on Stephanies door 30 minutes later.

The doctor answered the door with an almost shy smile, gently kissing Tina on the lips before ushering her inside, (smiling warmly) HiTina.

Tina strolled, a little hesitantly, into the hotel room, (cheerily) Hey Steph.

There was an uncomfortable silence as Tina went over and joined Stephanie, sitting on the side of the king size hotel bed. They stared into each others eyes, for what seemed like an eternity, but more realistically was 5 minutes, trying to read each others thoughts, unbeknown to the other that they were thinking exactly the same thing.

Both women broke the silence and spoke at the same time.

Tina: Um.Steph.

Stephanie: Tina, I think

Both women in unison, (nervously smiling) Sorry, go ahead

Tina signalled that she would begin, she had to make Stephanie understand that, if there were no Bette Porter, they would probably be very happy together, but there was and she was the absolute love of her life, so Tinas heart wasnt hers to give to anyone, it had already been given away a long time ago!!

At least they would finish this new relationship of theirs, before they really even got started and Tina would always be grateful to the good doctor for being there for her when she really needed her. for allowing her to BREATHE, even if it was only briefly.

Tina held her breath praying to the gods above that Steph understood, and they could remain friends; she needed Dr Stephanie Hunter in her life, she was a dear friend!!


Tina: (sympathetically looking into Stephanies eyes, taking her hands in her own) Stephyou are one of my closest and dearest friends and I never want that to change… Tina took a deep calming breath, readying herself to continue when Stephanie interrupted

She squeezed Tinas hand; letting out a quiet chuckle when she gazed into Tinas eyes and saw that she was beating herself up over what was about to happen, so Stephanie responded, Neither do I Tinaand I know what this is about. (smiling warmly, sincerely) Dont sweat it ok; I felt funny after that last kiss, last night anyway.. the spark was kinda gone yeah (Tina just nodded sombrely in agreement) it almost felt like.like I was kissing my sister(laughing) does that make me sound weird??.. Anyway I know Bette is the only one for you, I knew that all alongshe is one lucky lady!!I hope she realises that

Tina gave Stephanie a huge hug, thankful that she understood and that they could remain friends.

Tina: So youre sure youre cool with all this Steph?. Im really sorry

Stephanie put her finger up to Tinas lips, Im sure babeI think were much better. much stronger as friends anyway!!

Tina couldnt believe how cool Dr Stephanie was; You are going to make some incredibly lucky person a great partner one day doc!!!

Stephanie: I hope so! So Tinaanything new with the Bette situation, (jokingly) or was your breaking up with me just purely as a result of merely laying your eyes on her last night. How could I possibly compete with that??? Steph was trying to lighten the moment

Tina: Are you sure you really want to hear about this?

Stephanie: Were friends againremember!!!!!! Ask yourself this; would you have told me about it before we kissed, before we went out, and if the answer is yes then just tell me!!

Tina: It just feels kind of strange?

Stephanie: Come on. thats not the Tina Kennard I know and love. (realizing what she said, jovially correcting herself) as a friend, love as a friendwouldnt want you to get the wrong idea there friend!.. You had your chance. winking at Tina.

Tina just laughed, You are a nut doc!!

Tina: Alright then(sighing) Well at least now I know she isnt so over me as I thoughtShes having just as much trouble as I am(Steph nodded knowingly) Bette came by this morning Jack was sleeping in my arms, he snuggled with me during the night.

Stephanie: Awwwwhow cute is that Tina?

Tina continued, (broadly smiling, remembering her sons gesture) I know..Anyway Bette saw us, Jack and I together and she was moved to tears, it was a really special moment Then she spun this yarn to me about cutting all ties, (proudly) but Steph I told her how it was. how I was feeling and sheshe kissed me. This amazing (Tina had the starry eyed look on her face once more) unforgettable, knee weakening kissI felt like it was a dream

Stephanie: (seeing the love in Tinas eyes) Im so happy for you Tina.

Tina: (downcast) Um.Dont be; not yet anyway. The situation is not sorted AT ALL!!!! Bette just took off after the kiss. I have no idea whats going on. Anyway, Ive had enough Steph Bette will have to fight for me, if she wants me now. I am still going ahead with my plans to return with you to San Francisco, SaturdayIf this doesnt get sorted and I remain here it will devastate me even more now, because I know how Bette really feelsI know we love each other!!..I have fought for her, to apparently no avail, now its her turn.Thats if she wants to?

Stephanie: Shed be a fool not to!!

Tina: (blushing) Thanks Steph! giving her a light hug, What would I do without you?

Stephanie just smiled.

Tina: So anyway. enough about that. What do you want to do in L.A. today?

Stephanie: Unfortunately, I have my conference at 1pmbut that should only go for a few hoursIll call you when Im done Ok?

Tina: Okin the meantime I will figure out something fun for us to do this afternoon!! I could really do with a laugh!!

Stephanie: (smiling) A laugh sounds goodIll probably need a stiff drink too, after this conferenceKeep that in mind ok!!! winking at Tina.

Tina: (grinning) Ok Steph, well Id better be going. Call me when youre done ok! walking towards the door.

Stephanie: Ok, Ill see you then Tina.




After Bette had hastily left Shanes, she took herself and Jack straight homeher thoughts were in turmoilHer whole world was in turmoil!!!!!! The feel of Tinas soft smooth lips on her own; still dominating Bettes thoughts.

While she had the momentum, and while her heart was momentarily controlling her head, she wanted to.no she needed to talk to Kristie.

Bette put Jack down in front of the T.V. and he sat happily watching re-runs of play school.

She just stood and watched her son for a few minutes, mesmerised by the simplicity of his happiness. God, If only things were that easy. Bette naively thought to herself.

She picked up the phone, attempting to make arrangements to see Kristie..she needed to see Kristie now!!!

Kate, the receptionist answered the phone: Hello, Dr Phelps Consulting rooms

Bette: (calmly) Hi Kate, its BetteIs Dr Phelps available to see me. as soon as possible?

Kate: Hey Bette, Um.. Im sorry. Dr Phelps is assisting with surgery at the moment, and she has a backlog of patients all afternoon. Do you want me to leave her a message to call you when she has a spare minute?

Bette: (thinking, slightly disappointed) Umno its okI will speak to her later, please just tell her that I called?

Kate: Sure Bette.Ok see you.

Bette: Ok thanks

Bette hung up the phone a little frustrated. She couldnt wait until that night to talk to Kristie, if she had all day to think about things, she would loose her nerve and retreat back into her shell. Her heart couldnt hold out that long.

Nope. this time Bette Porter was going to face her problems head on. but how??

Bette called the C.A.C and informed James she wouldnt be for the remainder of the day, there was no way she wouldve been able to concentrate on anything work related anyway. and she needed to determine what she was going to do!!

She didnt know what to do next. Bette knew Tina would think the worst, her running off like that, but she just couldnt staya few minutes more and she never wouldve been able to let her go.

She had to sort out her life first. whatever that meant. She couldnt do the same thing to Kristie that she did to Tina all those years agoand she couldnt leave her, but she had to tell Kristie how she was feeling; it was unfair otherwise to Kristie, to Tina and most of all to Jack..!!!

Bette knew that that was her biggest downfall in her relationship with Tina, that she didnt tell her how she was feeling; when she was hurting, or sad, or lonely, or in love. Tina deserved to know then and Kristie deserves to know now! Bette thought to herself.

Bette sat in the recliner, in her home, her eyes scanning the room, gazing around at all the memories, (photos, ornaments and such) that her, Kristie and Jack had obtained over the last 12 monthsmaterial possessions that reminded Bette of her life, (sadly) a life without her Tee

They were happy memories, she had been happy for the most part, for the last 12 months with Kristiebut she couldnt help think that it was a false sense of happiness that was portrayed in those material memories, which had always threatened to crumble at the re-emergence of her one true love..

As she looked around at twelve months worth of memories, a sudden realization occurred to Bette. Tinaher Tee had missed 5 whole years worth of these types of memories. That though alone made Bette extremely. sad.

She came to a conclusion, what mayve be construed as a minor epiphany.It wasnt anyones fault that all this happened, that Tina was so cruelly taken away from her, ok so maybe it was the drivers fault, but at that moment her mind was clear and definitive life was too short to waste it.

It was not fair to Tina, to Kristie or to herself to let this situation remain up in the air any longer

She needed it sortedno more confusion and doubt for Bette Porterthis was getting resolved, today, RIGHT NOW!!.

Bette was going over to the hospital and she was going to sort out her relationship with Dr Kristie, one way or another, she would wait all day if she had to.

Bette called Alice to see if she could mind Jack for an hour or two.

Alice answered after the third ring, Hello Bette! To what do I owe this privilege?

Bette: (rolling her eyes) Hey Al, are you busy at the moment?

Alice: (hesitantly) Noooooonot really why?

Bette: I have an important meeting that just came up (not really a lie, Bette thought to herself), I was wondering if you could watch Jack for about an hour or two?

Alice checked her schedule and to Bettes relief, for probably the first time in her whole life Alice didnt ask any questions. Bette could hear Alice mumbling and scribbling, she could tell Alice was rearranging her day to see Jack; it warmed Bettes heart to know she had such good friends

Alice: Ok. at 1pm I can swing it Bette, (looking at her watch) thats only about an hour away.Id love to look after the little man! Ill meet you at the Cup then, ok?

Bette let out the breath that she was unaware she was holding, Thanks so much Al, OkIll see you then!

Alice: (excitedly) Ok, bye!

Bette arrived at the Cup just before 1pm. She was extremely nervous about her impending discussion with Kristie. She wanted to make sure that Alice didnt pick up on the nervousness, or she wouldnt be able to stop the barrage of questions. Bette grabbed a latte and took a seat at a table outside the caf, waiting for her friend.

Alice arrived at 1pm on the dot, walking in with her cell up to her ear, carrying a soft black briefcase full to the brink, with papers.

Alice spotted Bette outside and waved; ordering her coffee and shutting off her phone she approaching Bette and Jack.

As Alice approached Bette said to herself, Come on Porter, you can do this. Act like its an everyday meeting!!

Alice first spoke to Jack, Hey there kiddo how is my favourite little man today? Aunty Alice is going to look after you for a while, while mommy goes to a meeting! holding out her hand to give Jack a high five.

Alice looked over at Bette, Hey Bette.

Bette just smiled, Hi Alice!

Jack was happily grinning away, slapping Alices hand. Looking over at his mommy, YeeeyyyyAwnty Alice lookiin aftr me mommy?

Bette looked purposely at her watch, speaking to her son, Yes, thats right kiddo, I wont be long ok handing Jack to Alice and making a move to leave.

Looking back at Alice, Thanks a lot Al, Im late, so I need to get going!

Alice: What, youre not even going to have a coffee with me?

Bette: (hurriedly) When I get back, I promise Al! Ill call you when Im done!

Alice pretended to pout, looking down at Jack, Ok thenwell have fun without mommy anyway heywont we Jack!! as Bette waved goodbye and left.

Jack: (excitedly) Yeeaaahhhh.

Bette got in her car with a smile on her face, she was extremely nervous still, but she had successfully completed her goal and managed to quell any curiosity Alice may have had about her meeting, and Bette was happy about that; that was one less thing she had to worry about.

Bette arrived at Kristies consulting rooms at about 2 oclock in the afternoon. She wandered up to the reception counter and saw Kate.

Bette: Hi Kate

Kate: (a quizzical look on her face) Hey Bette, what are you doing here? Is Jack ok??

Bette: Yeah. everythings fine. I really need to see Dr Phelps. Its in relation to an urgent matter!! (emphasising the word URGENT!!) Could you possibly buzz Kris and tell her I am here. smiling, trying to look confident.

Kate, Ok, Ill try?

Kate buzzed Kristie and as soon as she was informed that her Bette was in the waiting room, Kristie knew it was important. Her heart rate went from 70bpm to 120bpm in 10 seconds flat!!

Kristie: Kate, tell Bette Ill be right out okand could you cancel my afternoon appointments, Ill see whos already waiting but thats all Ok.

Kate smiled over at Bette, still talking to Kristie on the phone, Sure doc. I will fix that.

Kristie hung up her phone, her heart was full of hope but her head was full of dread. She walked out of her consulting room and into the waiting area, immediately laying her eyes upon the love of her life.

Kristie approached Bette, staring into her eyes, closing the distance between them and encasing her in a warm hug.

Bette gave Kristie a tender, brief kiss, returning the embrace.

Bette: (warmly smiling) Hi KrisDo you think we can talk. Im sorry to bother you at work but you left so early this morning and..

Kristie interrupted, (hesitantly) Its ok babe,..I know you wouldnt interrupt me at work unless it was important.. Have you..Have you made your decision? almost petrified to even ask the question.

Kristie led the way back into her consulting room with Bette following, holding each others hand lightly.

Bette: (melancholy) Yes sweetieYes I have!

Kristies heart was thumping so hard, its a wonder Bette couldnt hear it, Its a wonder the patients in the waiting room couldnt hear it!

Kristie and Bette went into her consulting room closing the door, and taking a seat opposite each other

Kristie looked at Bette in anticipation, And.. holding her breath for a response.

Bette: (taking Kristies hands in her own) Kris.I saw Tina this morning at Shanes, when I picked up Jack.I told her I had to cut all ties with her and she informed me she was returning to San Francisco anyway(Kristie began to breath and slightly smile in hope). But then something happened sweetieIm sorry, I have to be honest with you here ok! (Kristie nodded, she knew this next bit was going to be bad but she had to hear it!)We were talking babywe were talking and I kissed her, I kissed Tina. (almost in a whisper) KrisI realized I am and will always be in love with Tina Kennard

Bette couldnt have hurt Kristie any more if she tried. Kristie had the feeling that it was coming but it didnt stop her whole world from crumbling…..it didn’t stop her heart from breaking. Tears quickly welled in her eyes.

Bette continued, seeing Kristies hurt, berating herself for doing it again, for hurting another woman she loved, Maybe I dont deserve either of them Bette sadly thought to herself. But she continued, she wanted to make sure that Kristie knew she was loved, .The thing is I love you too, very much Kris. and I want to be completely unselfish hereIf my loving you is enough for you to think we will work, I will stay and be commited to you and our family and not see Tina again, everlike you want. I will not hurt you any further!!. After the distribution of our assets proceeding on Wednesday I will let her just go back to San Francisco on Saturday and thats it!!.(looking into Kristies sorrowful eyes, tears trickling down her own cheek) What do you want Kristie? Is my love enough for you?.

Tbc..