1pm. Day 2. California University. West Hollywood

Tina had gotten directions to Phyllis Kroll’s office from James, unsure if Bette was planning on joining her or not. She was just about to knock on the door when she saw the column of white walk towards her. Tina turned to find Bette striding purposefully towards her. She fought the smile that played on the corner of her lips as she watched the brunette approach. Bette stopped a few feet short of Tina, her face expressionless as she fixed her gaze on the blonde.

“I don’t have to be here if you’d rather meet with Phyllis alone. I just wasn’t sure.”

“Thanks for coming back”

Bette did not respond to Tina’s last comment. Waiting to be told if she was needed.

“I… uh… I think I’ll be ok on my own, I’m pretty prepared. And I have done this before” Tina attempted a small laugh – which came out more like a cough.

“Fine. I’ll be in my office. You have my cell if you need me” Once again, Bette turned on her heel and walked away.

Tina cursed silently, she had felt so prepared for this meeting and 30 seconds with Bette could dismantle her so quickly and fully. She tried to compose herself once more before knocking on the door.

2:15pm. Day 2. California University. West Hollywood

Bette lifted her head as the door to her office opened. She held her breath, hoping for James, a student, a professor… anyone but…
“Hi Bette” said Tina.

“Hi” Bette’s tone was short and she returned her attention to her screen.

“So the meeting went well, thanks for setting that up for me” Tina tried again tentatively.

“Sure”

“Bette?”

Bette felt her heart pump faster and simultaneously felt her blood boil. Tina did not get to decide when, where and how they were going to deal with this. She looked up; attempting to glare at the blonde, but the look on Tina’s face softened Bette.

“Yes?”

“I’m sorry I brushed you off before. I am. I just, I had to get this done. I did not want to go into that meeting a mess. This whole trip – it’s not a vacation, it’s business and I had to get things done. I know we need to talk. I want to talk about it. Just. I… I wish I had stayed in a hotel. I wish…”